Orbits Achieves Cyber Essentials Plus: What It Means for You
Nowadays, cybersecurity is more important than ever. That’s why Orbits is thrilled to announce that it has achieved Cyber Essentials Plus! This accomplishment displays our continued commitment to providing clients with the highest level of cybersecurity, ensuring peace of mind in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
What is Cyber Essentials Plus?
Cyber Essentials Plus is a UK government-backed certification scheme designed to help organisations protect themselves against the most common cyber threats. While the standard Cyber Essentials certification involves a self-assessment, Cyber Essentials Plus takes it a step further. It requires an independent, hands-on technical verification to ensure that all security measures are not only in place but are also functioning effectively.
In essence, Cyber Essentials Plus is like having a professional health check for an organisation’s cyber defences. It provides a higher level of assurance that the company is well-protected against cyber attacks, safeguarding both its data and that of its clients.
What Does Cyber Essentials Plus Include?
The certification focuses on five key areas of cybersecurity:
- Secure Configuration: Ensuring that all devices and software are configured securely to minimise vulnerabilities. Default settings are adjusted to close any potential loopholes.
- Boundary Firewalls and Internet Gateways: Implementing robust firewalls to act as a barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, such as the internet.
- Access Control: Managing who has access to data and services. Only authorised individuals can access sensitive information, reducing the risk of insider threats.
- Patch Management: Regularly updating software and systems to protect against known vulnerabilities. This proactive approach prevents attackers from exploiting outdated software.
- Malware Protection: Using advanced tools to detect and eliminate malicious software. Antivirus programs and other solutions are deployed to guard against malware threats.
By successfully passing an external assessment in these areas, we’re able to demonstrate that our cybersecurity measures are robust and effective.
What are the Benefits of Cyber Essentials Plus?
The Cyber Essentials Plus scheme offers numerous benefits that extend beyond individual organisations:
- Protection Against Common Cyber Threats: The certification helps organisations guard against the most prevalent cyber attacks. By addressing common vulnerabilities, it significantly reduces the risk of a security breach.
- Enhanced Reputation: Being certified signals to clients, partners, and stakeholders that an organisation takes cybersecurity seriously. It builds trust and confidence in the company’s ability to protect sensitive information.
- Competitive Advantage: In a market where cybersecurity concerns are growing, having the certification can set an organisation apart from competitors who may not have the same level of security assurance.
- Compliance with Regulatory Requirements: Some industries and government contracts require suppliers to have Cyber Essentials Plus certification. Achieving it ensures compliance with such mandates.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that robust cybersecurity measures are in place allows businesses to focus on their core activities without the constant worry of potential cyber threats.
- Improved Business Efficiency: The process of obtaining the certification often leads to better organisational practices, such as streamlined processes and clearer policies, which can enhance overall efficiency.
- Insurance Incentives: Some insurance companies recognise the certification and may offer better terms or reduced premiums to certified organisations.
Should You Get Cyber Essentials Plus?
For businesses considering their own cyber security posture, obtaining Cyber Essentials Plus certification can be a valuable step. Here are some reasons why:
- Protection Against Common Threats: The certification helps organisations guard against the most prevalent cyber attacks, significantly reducing risk.
- Demonstrated Commitment to Security: It shows clients, partners, and stakeholders that the organisation is dedicated to maintaining high security standards.
- Eligibility for Certain Contracts: Some government and industry contracts require suppliers to have Cyber Essentials Plus certification.
- Insurance Benefits: Organisations may receive better terms or lower premiums on cyber insurance policies when they are certified.
- Improved Business Processes: The certification process often uncovers areas for improvement, leading to more efficient and secure operations.
How to Achieve Cyber Essentials
Embarking on the journey to Cyber Essentials certification is a manageable process with the right approach:
- Understand the Requirements: Familiarise yourself with the five key controls outlined in the scheme.
- Assess Current Security Measures: Conduct a thorough review of existing systems and practices to identify any gaps.
- Implement Necessary Changes: Address identified vulnerabilities by updating configurations, enhancing firewall settings, managing access controls, patching software, and improving malware protection.
- Complete the Self-Assessment Questionnaire: For the basic Cyber Essentials certification, fill out the questionnaire to demonstrate compliance with the required controls.
- Arrange for an External Assessment: For Cyber Essentials Plus, engage an accredited certification body to perform a hands-on technical audit of your systems.
- Achieve Certification: Upon successful completion of the assessment, receive the certification and promote your commitment to cybersecurity.
For more detailed guidance, businesses can visit Orbits’ Cyber Essentials page to learn how to navigate the certification process effectively.
Orbits’ Commitment to Cybersecurity
Cyber Essentials Plus is more than just a certification; it’s a comprehensive approach to protecting organisations against common cyber threats. By addressing critical areas of vulnerability, it provides a solid foundation for robust cyber security.
Our achievement of this certification underscores the importance of taking proactive steps to safeguard digital assets. For businesses contemplating their own cybersecurity strategies, Cyber Essentials Plus offers a clear pathway to enhanced protection, improved reputation, and greater peace of mind.
Get in Touch
If you’re interested in learning more about Cyber Essentials Plus or need assistance in enhancing your cyber security measures, Orbits is here to help. With expertise and a friendly approach, Orbits makes navigating the complexities of cyber security straightforward and manageable.
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