[vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1452687555475{margin-bottom: 100px !important;}”][vc_column offset=”vc_col-lg-9 vc_col-md-9″ css=”.vc_custom_1452702342137{padding-right: 45px !important;}”][vc_custom_heading source=”post_title” use_theme_fonts=”yes” el_class=”no_stripe”][stm_post_details][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1491820644396{margin-bottom: 20px !important;}”]Cyber safety is increasingly important for all businesses to incorporate into their systems and departments. We recently touched on how businesses can improve their cyber security in our last blog. The UK Government-led incentive the Cyber Essentials Scheme is helping SMEs with cost-effective cyber security. The programme has been running strong since 2014, but it is surprising how many businesses are not taking cyber threats seriously.

 

The early bird gets the cyber worm

Like with many new initiatives, the early adopters are the ones who benefit the most. The Cyber Essentials Scheme is now being widely recognised as an industry standard, so those who adopted early proved they were forward-thinking on cyber security. The scheme provided a cost-effective means of protecting sensitive data and reducing the opportunity for a cyber attack.

Underestimate security risks – risk losing customers

For any business with even a small online presence, cyber security is a must-have. Prospects are increasingly aware of the value of their data, and may choose to shop elsewhere if there is a risk of security. The number of businesses that don’t see the value of proper cyber security is concerning. It’s the equivalent of leaving a white van full of tools unlocked overnight.

Basic cyber security assurance in one place

Rather than seeking accreditations from many different sources, the Cyber Essentials Scheme creates an industry standard that is accessible for businesses of all sizes. It has been noted that early adopters of the Cyber Essentials Scheme are rewarded with good quotes from insurers.

The Government is making Cyber Essentials essential for their contracts

The government is ensuring that this new phase of cyber security awareness is rolled out with its contracts and suppliers. The scheme so far has awarded more than 6,000 certificates to date. Now, with this new initiative, the scheme will surely see more certificates awarded as suppliers of the Government set the bar for cyber compliancy.

Cyber Essentials: supporting business operations

The demand for cyber security compliance is rapidly changing, as many companies are seeing just how vital it is in supporting business operations. It is no longer an option for companies to keep ignoring cyber security as part of their business operations. Cyber security through the Cyber Essentials scheme will benefit companies of all sizes and types.

The consequences of poor cyber security 

Poor cyber security has many consequences for all businesses. It’s not just the risk of losing a few email addresses; it can be company-wide and devastating. Sensitive data such as financial records and banking details getting into the wrong hands doesn’t bear thinking about. Many sectors and businesses understand that cyber security verified by the Cyber Essentials Scheme is a benchmark worth achieving.

A mature approach to cyber security 

The cyber security industry is maturing quickly, as more companies begin to recognise that working with businesses who have cyber security credentials has its advantages. Big firms such as Barclays, BT, Vodafone, etc. have encouraged their suppliers to be early adopters of the Cyber Essentials Scheme.

 

Is it time you looked at your cyber security options?[/vc_column_text][stm_post_bottom][stm_post_about_author][stm_post_comments][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/4″ offset=”vc_hidden-sm vc_hidden-xs”][stm_sidebar sidebar=”527″][/vc_column][/vc_row]