UK businesses improve technical controls with Cyber Essentials

cyber breaches survey 2018   The Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2018 was released in April 2018. The research has revealed that over half of all businesses in the UK have now have implemented the five basic technical controls listed as essential under the Government-endorsed Cyber Essentials scheme.  

Cyber Essentials Scheme

Cyber Essentials can help UK businesses protect their data against 80% of all cyber attacks. Many smaller businesses have adopted the certification to improve basic technical controls and demonstrate commitment to cyber security.   cyber essentials - cyber breaches survey   The latest Cyber Security Breaches Survey has estimated that over 51% of all UK businesses have implemented all of the five basic technical controls listed under the Cyber Essentials scheme. This includes:
  • applying software updates when available (92%)
  • up-to-date malware protection (90%)
  • firewalls with appropriate configurations (89%)
  • restricting IT admin and access rights to specific users (78%)
  • security controls on company-owned devices (65%)
 

General Data Protection Regulation

With the launch of the General Data Protection Regulation on 25 May approaching with its emphasis on responsibility for data security, now is the time for businesses to allocate cyber security spend wisely. Investment in cyber security is well worth it when the new fines are taken into consideration. The levels of fines vary depending on turnover. The first is up to €10 million or 2% of the company’s global annual turnover of the previous financial year, whichever is higher. The second is up to €20 million or 4% of the company’s global annual turnover of the previous financial year. GDPR is mentioned in chapter three of the Cyber Security Breaches Survey, which found that 38% of businesses and 44% of charities are aware of GDPR. Of those, 13% businesses and 9% of charities had “amended their cyber security policies or processes specifically in preparation for GDPR.”  

Win with Cyber Essentials Certification

Did you know that the Ministry of Defence has mandated that all businesses looking to win defence contracts MUST have Cyber Essentials certification in place? By having Cyber Essentials certification in place, you are securing your customers’ details and promoting your business as a trustworthy supplier.   cyber-essentials   Would you like to receive cyber security  training? Our Cyber Essentials webinar provides organisations with an excellent opportunity to learn more about cyber security. Watch now or find out more about Cyber Essentials.