Cyberattacks are becoming increasingly frequent and sophisticated, making it imperative for businesses to enhance their cybersecurity measures. According to a report, less than half of companies globally are sufficiently prepared for a cyberattack.
To avoid the damaging consequences of cyberattacks, such as the loss of critical data and high recovery costs, businesses can turn to the UK government-backed scheme, Cyber Essentials. This certification offers a range of benefits to bolster your business’s cybersecurity posture.
Here are 10 key benefits of gaining a Cyber Essentials certification:
1. Protection Against 80% of Common Cyber Threats
Developed by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Cyber Essentials helps protect your business against 80% of the most basic cyber security breaches by covering five critical controls:
- Firewalls: Policing incoming web traffic to prevent unauthorized access.
- Secure Configuration: Ensuring your security settings are optimized.
- User Access Control: Adding an additional line of defense should an attacker gain access.
- Malware Protection: Stopping viruses, trojans, worms, and more from infecting your systems.
- Patch Management: Keeping your applications and devices up to date with the latest security patches.
By implementing these controls, your business can significantly reduce its vulnerability to common cyber threats.
2. Compliance with Regulatory Requirements
Many industries have regulatory requirements related to data protection and cybersecurity. Cyber Essentials certification can help ensure compliance with these regulations.
For example, the certification aligns with the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union, providing assurance that your business meets key legal obligations. This alignment not only helps you avoid legal penalties but also demonstrates to clients and partners that you are committed to protecting their data.
3. Save Money in the Long Term
While there is an initial cost for the Cyber Essentials certification, it can save your business money in the long run. Certified businesses often benefit from lower insurance premiums by showing GDPR compliance, reducing the risk of costly cyberattacks, and decreasing downtime, resulting in improved efficiency.
Also, for many SMEs, the cost of certification is relatively low compared to the potential costs associated with a cyber breach. The certification process is straightforward, and the investment can pay off significantly in terms of enhanced security and reduced risk.
4. Better Understanding of Cyber Threats
The process of obtaining Cyber Essentials certification helps SMEs gain a better understanding of the cyber threats they face. The certification process involves a thorough assessment of your current security measures and identifies areas for improvement. This increased awareness enables you to make informed decisions about your cybersecurity strategy.
By achieving Cyber Essentials certification, your business will be better protected against the estimated 7.78 million cybercrimes that UK businesses experience annually. This certification helps ensure your security processes are robust and up to date, reducing the risk of GDPR non-compliance and enhancing overall data protection.
5. Build Trust with Customers
Customers are becoming more aware of cybersecurity issues and prefer to do business with companies that prioritize security. Cyber Essentials certification demonstrates your commitment to protecting customer data and maintaining secure operations. This can enhance your reputation and build trust with current and potential customers, giving you a competitive edge.
6. Improved Business Opportunities
Many government contracts and private sector tenders require Cyber Essentials certification as a prerequisite. By obtaining the certification, your business becomes eligible to bid for a wider range of contracts, opening up new business opportunities and revenue streams. This can be particularly advantageous for SMEs looking to expand their market presence.
7. Streamlined IT Processes
Implementing the controls required for Cyber Essentials certification can help streamline your IT processes. By adopting standardised security practices, you can improve the efficiency of your IT operations. This can lead to better resource management, reduced downtime, and more effective use of technology within your business.
8. Reduced Cyber Insurance Premiums
Insurers recognize Cyber Essentials certification as a sign of good cyber hygiene. Certified businesses often receive preferential treatment in underwriting, resulting in lower cyber insurance premiums. Additionally, businesses with Cyber Essentials certification and a turnover under £20 million may be entitled to £25,000 worth of Cyber Liability Insurance.
9. Operational Resilience
Cyber Essentials certification enhances your business’s operational resilience, making you better prepared to handle cyber incidents. This means:
- Less downtime.
- Quicker recovery.
- A stronger response to potential threats.
Ensuring your business continues to operate smoothly even in the face of cyber challenges.
10. Competitive Advantage
Demonstrating your commitment to cybersecurity through Cyber Essentials certification can set you apart from competitors who may not have the same level of protection. This can be a significant differentiator when attracting new customers and partners who prioritize security and reliability.
Achieving Cyber Essentials certification is not just about protecting your business against common cyber threats; it also opens doors to new business opportunities, enhances your reputation, and ensures compliance with industry regulations.
By implementing the measures required for certification, your business will be better equipped to handle cybersecurity challenges and maintain operational resilience.
Contact Creative Networks Today
Discover how Creative Networks can help your business achieve Cyber Essentials certification and improve your overall cybersecurity posture.
Our expert team will guide you through the certification process, ensuring that your business implements the necessary security measures to protect against common cyber threats.
By partnering with Creative Networks, you can strengthen your IT infrastructure, build customer trust, and open up new business opportunities.
