So, why is achieving a Cyber Essentials certification so important?
In our recent blogs, we have covered the basics of a Cyber Essentials certification as well as what exactly the process of gaining the certification involves. We now move on to covering why you need a Cyber Essentials certification. As well as the opportunities that come with having the certification.
Below, we cover 4 benefits of achieving a Cyber Essentials certification.
1. Reduce the risk of falling victim to a cyber attack
With cyber-attacks and threats on the rise, it has never been more important to ensure your business protects itself from falling victim. Around 71.1 million people fall victim to cybercrimes every year! Having a Cyber Essentials certification gives you peace of mind that your business is protected against around 80% of the most basic cybercrimes.
2. Demonstrate to your customers that you take cyber security seriously
Holding a Cyber Essentials certification demonstrates to your customer base that you take both your own as well as their cyber security seriously. This is likely to attract customers to use you over a competitor as they will feel safer that their personal data is protected. No customer ever wants to feel they are at risk of a data breach. Therefore, having a cyber essentials certification will help you retain and attract customers.
3. Open your organisation to the opportunities of working with the Government and the Ministry of Defence
Did you know, that all Government and Ministry of Defence organisations require their contractors to hold a Cyber Essentials certification to even be considered as a company they can work with? Therefore, for any business that would like to put forward to win contracts within this sector, a cyber essentials certification is vital! Even if this is not an area your business is currently looking to work with, many large organisations are starting to take the same stance. So, not having a certification could hinder your chance of winning contracts.
4. Feel confident you have the basic levels of protection in place
The Cyber Essentials certification is only valid for one year and must be renewed annually. This however ensures that you are protected against the latest cybercrimes and that your measures put in place remain relevant. This therefore means you can be confident you are ensuring your cyber security is up-to-date. Achieving certification also involves ensuring all software is installed with the latest updates which further protects you from the latest, most advanced cyber threats.
Who needs Cyber Essentials?
In short, every business! After considering the above points, it is hard to find a business that would not want to first protect itself from cybercrime but also its customer base! Aside from that, the opportunity to work with larger organisations as well as bid for Government and Ministry of Defence contracts makes achieving the certification very worthwhile for a lot of businesses looking to expand and attract larger clientele.
Is it worth it?
Yes! Achieving a Cyber Essentials certification is absolutely worth it. It ensures you are protected from the vast majority of basic attacks whilst also giving your customers enhance trust in your businesses as well as opening the doors to new opportunities.
Do you want to learn more about achieving a Cyber Essentials certification? Contact us today and our friendly, knowledgeable team will be happy to explain in more detail the Cyber Essentials process or help you take the first steps to achieve your Cyber Essentials Certification!