Cyber Essentials Accreditation
Are you looking for help with a Cyber Essentials Accreditation for your Business or Charity?
Cyber Essentials is a UK Government-backed scheme that helps businesses to protect themselves from common online threats. It is a set of basic security controls that all companies should have in place to reduce their risk of data leakage, data breaches, cyber attacks and exploitation. By achieving Cyber Essentials certification, businesses can demonstrate to their customers, suppliers and partners that they take cyber security seriously.
We provide help, advice and solutions, and ongoing Support with Cyber Essentials Accreditations for both charities, small businesses and medium sized businesses across Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire and West Sussex. Our service is reliable, consistent and first class, we avoid technical jargon and use plain english to explain your journey to Cyber Essentials Accreditation. We cover businesses and charities across the south coast region. Our Areas of Service are here https://www.century-it.co.uk/location/
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Ready to find out more?
Contact Century IT Services today for discussion on how to attain Cyber Essentials Accrediation for your Business. Helping your business to thrive in the digital age and keep your IT Systems running smoothly. Let’s build a stronger, more efficient future together.
Why is Cyber Essentials Accreditation important
Stronger Cyber Protection
Businesses with Cyber Essentials accreditation significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to cyber attacks, cyber crime, financial loss and data leakage. This certification covers key security controls that help prevent 80% of the most common threats strenghening your business resilience and robustness
Enhanced Customer Confidence
Clients, Customers, Suppliers and partners feel more secure knowing they’re working with an organization committed to cybersecurity best practices and keeping their IT Systems and Data secure from Data Leakage and exploitation. Ultimately providing a reliable and resilient supply chain and Service Levels
Compliance & Competitive Advantage
Many of your Customers, Suppliers, Partners & Government Contracts require businesses they trade with to have Cyber Essentials accreditation to tender for Contracts & Services, making it a crucial requirement for maintaining competitiveness & tendering advantage
Reduced Insurance Premiums
Business Insurance providers are increasingly requiring a competent, verifiable level of Cyber Defence compliance and security posture. Some cyber insurance providers offer discounted premiums to businesses with Cyber Essentials accreditation, as it demonstrates a commitment to cybersecurity
In today's digital landscape, cyber threats are evolving at an unprecedented rate. Businesses and Charities of all sizes are at risk, and a single security breach can be devastating, impacting operations, finances, and reputation. That’s why achieving a U.K Government backed Cyber Essentials accreditation is a fundamental step in securing your organization against cyber threats and ensuring your business have a robust security posture.
What is Cyber Essentials Accreditation?
Cyber Essentials accreditation is a U.K government-backed certification designed to help businesses and charities protect themselves against common cyber attacks in today's digital world. It provides a clear framework for implementing essential cybersecurity measures, ensuring that fundamental security controls are in place to safeguard sensitive data and critical infrastructure.
Achieving Cyber Essentials accreditation demonstrates that your business or charity has taken proactive steps to minimize vulnerabilities, ensuring that your systems are protected against the most common cyber threats—including phishing attacks, malware, and unauthorised access, and are using best practice Data Protection techniques.
What type of Business is Cyber Essentials suitable for
Cyber Essentials Accreditation is aimed at Every Business and Charity from a Micro Business, Small Business or Medium size Business, right up to big Corporates
Every business nowadays are reliant upon the Digital World and should be taking steps to secure their IT Systems and Data they hold to data is protected and their Computer Systems are least likely to be exploited.
It is a UK Government backed, nationally recognised certification that gives your Customers, Suppliers and Partners reassurrance that Services and Products in your supply chain will be reliable, consistent and predictive and disruptions are less likely with a Cyber Essentials Accreditated Business
7.7m
Cyber Crimes were experienced by businesses over the past year. That's around half of all business in the UK. Don't be next.
Source : National Cyber Security Centre https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberessentials/overview
More resilient
92% fewer insurance claims are made by organisations with the Cyber Essentials controls in place
More trusted
89% of organisations would recommend certifying to other organisations like theirs
More competitive
69% of those with Cyber Essentials beleive that it has increased their market competitiveness
More informed
88% believe Cyber Essentials has improved their understanding of cyber security risks
Source : National Cyber Security Centre https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberessentials/overview
As a local, friendly, and highly experienced IT Services Provider, we specialise in giving reliable advice, identifying security issues and misconfigurations, implementing security improvements, and helping businesses navigate the Cyber Essentials certification process with ease.
We understand that cybersecurity can seem complex, which is why our knowledgeable and professional team offers approachable and tailored support throughout the entire accreditation process and help protect you from common Cyber Attacks.
We understand every business and charity is different and require a tailored approach and cyber essential advice in plain, easy to understand english without the industry jargon to help you achieve Cyber Essentials Certification.
Our Cyber Essentials Accreditation Service Includes
Comprehensive Cyber Security Assessment
We identify existing vulnerabilities and provide actionable solutions and recommendations to meet Cyber Essentials requirements.
Security Implementation Support
From firewall configurations, to secure device management, to access control, our team ensures all necessary controls are properly set up and configured for best practice
Guidance on Cyber Essentials Accreditation Application
We provide expert guidance and advice to help businesses confidently complete their Cyber Essentials application process.
Ongoing Cyber Security Advice & Support
Even after sucessfully achieving Cyber Essentials accreditation, your Business journey continues, we offer continued support and advice to help you stay cyber-secure.
Our tried and tested proceedure will help you gain Cyber Essentials Accreditation more easily, our internally developed process helps organisations stay safe by ensuring our tried and tested 8 technical controls are in place.
Our approach is professional, thorough, and fully tailored to your business needs, making the journey toward Cyber Essentials accreditation smooth and stress-free. We take pride in ensuring businesses receive their Cyber Essentials Certification efficiently while strengthening their overall cybersecurity posture.
Secure Configuration
Setup computers securely to minimise ways that a cyber-criminal can find a way in
User Access Control
Control who can access your data and services and what level of access they have
Malware Protection
Identify and immobilise viruses or other malicious software before it has a chance to cause harm
Security Update Management
Prevent cyber crimimnals using vulnerabilities they find in software as an acess point to your systems
Monitoring
Our Cyber Essentials Ready Services monitors, maintains your IT landscape with easy to undertstand actionable reports
Maintaining
Our Cyber Essentials Ready Service will help ensure that your Security Posture can adapt and change as the Security Risks evolve
Firewalls
Create a security filter between the internet and your network
Process, Proceedure, Documentation
Documentation of IT Systems, Network Diagrams, Open Firewall Ports, Leavers Process
Century IT Services are a long established and reputable IT Service Company that provides outstanding IT Outsourcing Services to many Business and Charities throughout the South Coast Region of the U.K.
We have an excellent reputation of providing a consistent, reliable, professional approach to Business IT needs, our customers renew their IT Services Agreements with us year after year, our customer retention period is very long and typically runs over a decade.
We have many years of experience within the IT Industry are believe we are best placed to help your Business acheive Cyber Essentials Certification and help ensure you can renew that same Cyber Essentials Certification year-on-year.
Our IT Support Company is based in Southampton, Hampshire and cover Charities and Businesses IT systems the geographical areas of Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire and West Sussex
Our areas of service are https://www.century-it.co.uk/location/
- Experience: Our support team have years of experience in the IT industry, and are trusted IT experts
- Professionalism: We treat your business as our own, providing impartial advice and account management
- Independence: We’re not tied to any specific vendors, so our recommendations are unbiased.
- Local Presence: As a local company, we understand the unique challenges faced by businesses in our community.
- Peace of mind: Many business in a wide range of industries types trust us, and renew year on year
- Recommendation: 100% of our Customers wouldn't hesitate to recommend us
- Consider Us: Think of us as a natural extension of your business, a friendly team, dedicated to your success.
- Customer Service: Our business ethos is providing outstanding customer service each and every time
How do you find out if a Supplier, Partner or Customer is Cyber Essentials Accredited
Cyber threats are evolving, and businesses must take proactive steps to protect their digital assets. Achieving Cyber Essentials Certified status ensures that a company meets essential security standards, reducing the risk of cyberattacks. Whether handling customer data, complying with regulations, or seeking credibility, Cyber Essentials certification is a crucial step toward cybersecurity resilience.
Cyber Essentials: A Must for Business Security
Any organization that stores sensitive information, processes financial transactions, or relies on online systems should consider becoming Cyber Essentials Certified. With cyberattacks targeting businesses of all sizes, implementing Cyber Essentials guidelines strengthens defenses against threats such as ransomware, phishing, and unauthorized access. Companies handling personal data, especially under GDPR regulations, greatly benefit from being Cyber Essentials Accredited to ensure compliance.
Cyber Essentials Accredited: Business Growth and Trust
A Cyber Essentials Accredited company demonstrates security commitment, which is increasingly required for contracts, especially in government sectors. Many organizations require suppliers to be Cyber Essentials Certified to confirm robust security practices. This accreditation enhances business credibility, reassures clients, and reduces potential liabilities.
Cyber Essentials Certified: Protecting the Future
Cybersecurity isn’t optional—it’s a necessity. Becoming Cyber Essentials Accredited helps businesses safeguard their data, comply with industry regulations, and build long-term trust. By securing Cyber Essentials Certified status, organizations can confidently operate in the digital landscape while minimizing cyber risks.
Cybersecurity is a growing concern for businesses, and obtaining Cyber Essentials certification is a proactive step toward securing company data and reducing cyber risks. Becoming Cyber Essentials Accredited provides organizations with the tools to defend against common cyber threats, ensuring compliance and strengthening trust among clients and stakeholders.
Cyber Essentials: Strengthening Business Security
Achieving Cyber Essentials status confirms that a business has implemented key security measures, including firewalls, secure configurations, user access control, and malware protection. These safeguards significantly reduce vulnerabilities, making it harder for attackers to exploit weaknesses. Being Cyber Essentials Accredited also demonstrates a commitment to cybersecurity, which can enhance a company’s reputation and credibility.
Cyber Essentials Accredited: Business Benefits
A Cyber Essentials Accredited business gains protection against common threats like phishing attacks and ransomware. This certification helps meet regulatory requirements, improving compliance with data protection laws. Additionally, companies that achieve Cyber Essentials certification may be eligible for certain government contracts, offering new business opportunities.
Cyber Essentials: A Smarter Security Strategy
Cybersecurity should never be an afterthought. Businesses that become Cyber Essentials Accredited take a proactive stance in safeguarding sensitive information, improving resilience against cyber threats, and fostering trust in their digital operations. Investing in Cyber Essentials today ensures long-term security and stability in an increasingly digital world.
Ransomware is a pernicious type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid. It can cause significant disruption to individuals, businesses, and organizations. However, there are several steps that you can take to reduce the risk of falling victim to a ransomware attack.
Firstly, maintaining regular backups is one of the most effective ways to protect your data. Ensure that you have at least three copies of your critical data: the original data, a backup stored locally on a different device, and another backup stored offsite or in the cloud. Regularly verify that your backups are complete and functional. In the event of a ransomware attack, you can restore your system to its pre-attack state without paying the ransom.
Secondly, keep your operating system and software up to date. Cybercriminals often exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software to deliver ransomware. By installing updates and patches as soon as they become available, you can close these security gaps and protect your system from ransomware and other threats. Additionally, use reputable antivirus and anti-malware solutions to detect and block ransomware before it can cause harm.
Finally, educate yourself and your employees about the dangers of ransomware and safe computing practices. Phishing emails are a common delivery method for ransomware, so it's crucial to be vigilant about the emails you receive. Avoid opening attachments or clicking on links from unknown or suspicious sources. Implementing email filtering and blocking known malicious sites can further reduce the risk of ransomware.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a ransomware attack and protect your valuable data and systems. Stay informed about the latest threats and continuously review and update your security measures to stay ahead of cybercriminals.
Are you looking for IT Support Southampton, or IT Services Southampton, or IT Support Hampshire, or IT Services Hampshire?
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Working from home has become increasingly common, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it’s essential to address IT security considerations to protect sensitive data and maintain a secure work environment. Here are some tips for both employees and organizations:
1.Secure Your Home Office:
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- Treat your home workspace as you would your regular office. Lock your home office when not in use, and take your laptop inside when you step away.
- Physical security matters, even at home.
2.Secure Your Home Router:
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- Change the default password on your home router. Cyber Criminals often exploit default passwords, leaving your home network vulnerable.
- Use a unique, strong password to protect your home network.
3.Use Company-Provided Equipment:
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- Whenever possible, use a company laptop for remote work. If you must use personal equipment, align it with office security standards.
- Avoid mixing personal browsing and activities while working on your own machine.
4.Implement Network Segmentation:
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- Consider splitting your home network into segments. Keep work-related devices separate from personal devices.
- This helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.
5.Backup Solutions:
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- Prepare a backup solution at home. Regularly back up your work files to prevent data loss.
- Cloud storage or external drives are excellent options.
6.Stay Vigilant Against Scams:
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- Be cautious of online scams, phishing emails, and suspicious links.
- Verify the legitimacy of any communication related to work.
Remember, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Organizations should set policies, provide training, and monitor remote workstations. By following these guidelines, both employees and companies can enhance IT safety during home working
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Router:
- A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks.
- Its main purpose is to connect various networks simultaneously, selecting the best route for data packets to reach their intended destinations.
- A router operates at the physical layer, network layer, and data link layer of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model.
- Unlike a firewall, a router does not protect your network from unwanted intruders.
- It includes a sharing provision to allow internet connection sharing between networks.
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Firewall:
- A firewall acts as a security guard for your network, monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
- All data packets entering or leaving the network pass through the firewall, which checks whether they are authorized or not.
- Firewalls work primarily at the network layer of the OSI model.
- They use encryption to secure data before transmission.
- Unlike routers, firewalls do not share the network but provide protection against threats.
In summary, a router directs data packets to their destinations, while a firewall inspects and filters network traffic to enhance security
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It is becoming increasingly common that Business Insurance renewals are coming with complex exclusions and waivers if certain IT Security and Business Continuity conditions, and staff training awareness are not met.
A properly configured IT System can provide a good framework to discuss your Business Insurance renewal, whereas a poorly configured IT System will make the likelihood of a data loss or data breach event more likely.
We are familiar with Business Insurance requirements with regards to the Business IT Systems and the impact of how those IT Systems are configured
Discuss with us in depth how we can better secure your IT Systems and ensure your Business Insurance conditions are met.
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Cyber Essentials is a government-backed scheme designed to help organizations protect themselves against common online threats. Here’s what you need to know:
1.Purpose:
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- Guarding Against Cyber Attacks: Cyber Essentials helps your organization defend against a wide range of common cyber attacks.
- Demonstrating Commitment: By obtaining Cyber Essentials certification, you demonstrate your commitment to cybersecurity.
2.Certification Levels:
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- Cyber Essentials: This self-assessment option provides protection against basic cyber attacks. It ensures that your organization has essential technical controls in place to prevent common threats.
- Cyber Essentials Plus: Similar to Cyber Essentials, but with an additional hands-on technical verification.
3.Benefits of Getting Certified:
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- Reassure Customers: Certification reassures customers that you are actively securing your IT against cyber attacks.
- Attract New Business: Promote your cybersecurity measures to attract new clients.
- Clear Picture of Security Level: Understand your organization’s cybersecurity posture.
- Government Contracts: Some government contracts require Cyber Essentials certification.
4.Getting Certified:
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- IASME Consortium: Our Cyber Essentials partner, the IASME consortium, can assist you in obtaining certification.
- Readiness Toolkit: Use the Cyber Essentials readiness toolkit to create a personalized action plan for meeting the requirements.
If you’re bidding for central government contracts involving sensitive information or technical products/services, Cyber Essentials certification is essential
Endpoint Security Software: Endpoint security software is a critical component of any organization’s cybersecurity framework.
It specifically targets the devices connected to the corporate network, known as endpoints, including laptops, desktops, smartphones, tablets, servers, and even Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The primary function of this software is to detect, prevent, and respond to threats that these devices may encounter.
1.Comprehensive Protection Beyond Malware Detection:
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- While traditional antivirus software primarily focuses on detecting and removing known malware, endpoint security goes beyond that. It offers a broader range of security features, including:
- Threat Detection: Identifying suspicious behavior and zero-day threats.
- Firewall Management: Controlling network traffic and access.
- Data Loss Prevention: Safeguarding sensitive information.
- In essence, endpoint security provides a more holistic approach to safeguarding endpoints.
- While traditional antivirus software primarily focuses on detecting and removing known malware, endpoint security goes beyond that. It offers a broader range of security features, including:
2.Advanced Techniques and Behavioral Analysis:
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- Endpoint security often incorporates advanced features like machine learning and behavioral analysis. These techniques help identify and neutralize zero-day threats—new, previously unseen attacks that traditional security measures might miss.
- By analyzing patterns and behaviors, endpoint security solutions can proactively respond to emerging threats.
3.Data Integrity and Compliance:
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- Effective endpoint security is pivotal in ensuring data integrity and compliance with regulatory standards. It monitors and controls data access and transfer across devices, preventing data breaches and loss of sensitive information.
- Industries subject to stringent data protection regulations, such as healthcare and finance, rely heavily on robust endpoint security.
4.Adaptability to Remote Work and Digital Transformation:
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- As organizations embrace remote work and digital transformation, the number and variety of endpoints increase. This expansion creates a larger attack surface for potential cyber threats.
- Continuously updating resilient endpoint security solutions is indispensable for safeguarding organizational assets and maintaining operational continuity.
In summary, deploying endpoint security software significantly reduces the risk of cyberattacks, enhances data protection, and ensures the integrity of your organization’s network and devices
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The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a European Union (EU) law that was approved by the European Parliament on April 14, 2016, and went into effect on May 25, 2018. Here are some key points about GDPR:
1.Individual Privacy Rights: GDPR gives people more control over their data. Individuals have the right to access their personal data, rectify inaccuracies, and even erase their data when necessary.
2.Accountability for Organizations: Organizations that process personal data are held accountable under GDPR. They must implement measures to protect data and demonstrate compliance with the regulation.
3.Transparency and Trust: GDPR enhances transparency by requiring organizations to clearly communicate how they collect, use, and store personal data. This transparency builds trust in the digital economy.
In summary, GDPR is essential for ensuring responsible data handling, and maintaining trust in the digital world
Why Businesses Should Enable 2FA and Multi-Factor Authentication
Cyber threats are on the rise, and businesses must take proactive steps to protect sensitive data. One of the most effective security measures is Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). These authentication methods add an extra layer of protection, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
2FA Advice: Strengthening Business Security
Every business handling digital transactions, sensitive customer information, or internal communication should adopt 2FA Advice to secure accounts. Relying solely on passwords is not enough—compromised credentials are a major attack vector for cybercriminals. Implementing 2FA Advice ensures that even if a password is stolen, attackers cannot access accounts without the second authentication factor, such as a unique code sent to a mobile device.
MFA Benefits: Going Beyond Passwords
The MFA Benefits extend beyond security; they improve trust and compliance with industry regulations. Many businesses must adhere to cybersecurity frameworks, and enabling MFA Benefits demonstrates a commitment to data protection. Additionally, MFA helps prevent phishing attacks, reducing the likelihood of employees unknowingly providing login details to malicious entities.
Implementing 2FA and MFA for Business Success
To maximize 2FA Advice and MFA Benefits, businesses should integrate authentication solutions across all accounts, from email platforms to financial systems. Selecting the right authentication method, such as biometrics or security keys, can enhance usability without compromising security. Employees should also be trained on 2FA Advice to ensure seamless adoption and reduce resistance to security measures.
Cybersecurity is no longer optional—it is essential. Enabling MFA Benefits and following 2FA Advice can safeguard businesses against breaches, improve operational security, and reinforce trust with customers. By implementing multi-factor authentication today, businesses can ensure a more secure tomorrow.
Ready to find out more?
Contact Century IT Services today for discussion on how to attain Cyber Essentials Accrediation for your Business. Helping your business to thrive in the digital age and keep your IT Systems running smoothly. Let’s build a stronger, more efficient future together.