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Understanding Cyber Essentials Plus: Strengthening Your Cybersecurity

Matthew Holden
Matthew Holden
November 22, 2023

Understanding Cyber Essentials Plus: Strengthening Your Cybersecurity

We are delighted to announce Avoira are once again accredited on cyber essentials plus.

In today’s interconnected digital world, the importance of robust cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting businesses and organizations of all sizes. To safeguard sensitive data, protect customer information, and maintain a trustworthy online presence, companies need to invest in comprehensive cybersecurity measures. One such initiative is Cyber Essentials Plus, a certification scheme designed to help organizations strengthen their cybersecurity posture.

In this blog, we will delve into the world of Cyber Essentials Plus, exploring what it is, why it matters, and how to achieve this certification.

 

What is Cyber Essentials Plus?

Cyber Essentials Plus is an advanced version of the Cyber Essentials certification, a UK government-backed cybersecurity certification scheme. While Cyber Essentials focuses on the fundamentals of cybersecurity, Cyber Essentials Plus takes the protection of sensitive data to a higher level. This certification assesses an organisation’s cybersecurity defences more rigorously, using both automated and manual testing.

As part of our Cyber essentials plus audit, we had to submit the following for audit, 16 PC’s, 5 Mobiles and 9 servers. We also have had the following cloud services audited, Cloud, Office 365, Mimecast and the Avoira website. It seems like a lot, but we know that this is key to being as safe and secure as possible for our employees and our customers.

 

The key objectives of Cyber Essentials Plus are to:

  • Identify and address vulnerabilities in an organisation’s IT systems and networks.
  • Protect against common cyber threats, such as malware, phishing, and hacking.
  • Strengthen an organisation’s overall cybersecurity posture.

 

Why Does Cyber Essentials Plus Matter?

  • Enhanced Security: Cyber Essentials Plus certification requires organisations to meet a set of security standards. By achieving this certification, an organisation demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding its own and its clients’ data against common cyber threats.
  • Business Opportunities: Many government contracts and partnerships with larger organisations now require suppliers to have Cyber Essentials Plus certification. This certification can open doors to new business opportunities and partnerships.
  • Customer Trust: In an era where data breaches and cyberattacks are regular news, customers are more cautious than ever about sharing their information. Cyber Essentials Plus certification can help build trust and confidence among customers, showcasing an organisation’s commitment to cybersecurity.
  • Reduced Risks: By implementing the necessary security measures to achieve Cyber Essentials Plus certification, organisations reduce their exposure to cybersecurity risks. This, in turn, can prevent costly breaches and data theft.

 

Cybersecurity is not an option; it’s a necessity for any organisation that relies on digital technologies. Cyber Essentials Plus certification provides a clear pathway for organizations to enhance their cybersecurity measures, reduce risks, and gain the trust of customers and partners.

It’s so important to be Cyber Essentials certified as it gives other businesses the confidence to deal with your business as you have undergone the audit process.

Don’t hesitate, contact us today and we can help you get certified and ensure your cyber security is the best it can be.