According to the latest data from the UK Government’s Cyber security breaches survey, 58% of UK small businesses experienced a cyber attack in 2024.
Other cyber security statistics from the 2024 survey are enlightening:
- There were 7.78 million cyber attacks on UK businesses in 2024.
- 53% of companies were attacked once a month or more.
- Most (83%) cyber-attacks are phishing attacks (staff receiving fraudulent emails or arriving at fraudulent websites)
Protecting your business from the consequences of a cyber security breach should be a top priority for every organisation – no matter what size.
In our predominantly digital business landscape, obtaining Cyber Essentials certification is crucial. It is a proactive measure to ensure strong IT security and promote long-term business resilience in an ever-evolving digital environment.
It’s more than just the humans; they are a crucial part.
We often hear the saying that “humans are the weakest link” in a business’s cyber security defences. However, with the rise of AI-driven exploits and increasingly sophisticated attacks, it is no longer fair or effective to solely blame individuals for falling victim to these threats. Almost every organisation relies on digital services to some extent, and wherever there is technology, there is inherent risk.
Most criminal hackers aren’t state-sponsored or activists; they are opportunists using automated attacks to exploit poorly protected systems. Like burglars surveying weak properties, they send automated AI-generated phishing emails or scan networks to find vulnerabilities.
Understanding corporate networks can be challenging, especially with remote work. A centralised security approach provides better oversight and risk management than a distributed method, as it simplifies operations and enhances visibility.
Ensuring all your staff have the education and training to understand their role and responsibilities in protecting your business infrastructure and information security is vital. Attaining a cyber security certification is becoming an increasingly popular way of showing your commitment to cyber security and your employees’ commitment to it.
A platform-based approach helps security teams understand and protect key attack points. It also allows IT and security teams to communicate effectively, keeping everyone informed across the network.
The financial impact of these breaches can be significant. Over the past 12 months, the average cost incurred by all organisations is estimated at £8,460, while for medium to large businesses, it rises to £13,400.
Insurance companies care about cyber security.
Insurance companies are expressing growing concerns regarding the adequacy of cyber security measures among businesses. In response to the rising threat of cyberattacks, many insurers have begun incentivising better security practices by offering lower premiums to organisations that can prove their commitment to cyber security.
One way businesses can demonstrate this readiness is through obtaining Cyber Essentials certification, a recognised standard that showcases their efforts to safeguard their systems. By prioritising cyber security, these businesses protect themselves from potential breaches and benefit financially through reduced insurance costs.
Achieving full Cyber Essentials compliance can significantly mitigate up to 80% of prevalent cyber security risks, including malware and phishing attacks. This certification, developed by the UK government, is crucial in strengthening digital defences for organisations of all sizes. By adhering to this framework, businesses can implement essential security measures that protect against the constantly evolving landscape of cyber threats.
The Cyber Essentials framework outlines key areas for improvement, including secure internet connections, device access control, and adequate malware protection. Additionally, it emphasises the importance of regularly updating software and ensuring that security measures are continuously monitored and assessed. By achieving this certification, organisations bolster their security and enhance trust with customers by demonstrating a proactive commitment to safeguarding sensitive information.
Additionally, certified businesses demonstrate knowledge and compliance with GDPR, possibly contributing to lower insurance premiums.
Get on board and protect your business.
Securing a Cyber Essentials certification is a strategic and accessible approach to safeguarding your organisation against prevalent cyber security threats. This certification helps identify and mitigate risks and enhances your business’s reputation in an increasingly digital landscape. Demonstrating a commitment to robust cyber security practices can build trust with clients and stakeholders, potentially opening doors to new partnerships and opportunities.
Moreover, having this certification can position your business favourably in competitive bidding situations, as many organisations require suppliers to have demonstrated cyber resilience.
Pursuing Cyber Essentials is a proactive step toward strengthening your cyber security posture and fostering confidence among your customers and partners.
Cyber Essentials provides a comprehensive framework designed to enhance internal cyber security processes. It is structured around five critical criteria categories, collectively serving as a step-by-step guide to fortifying your organisation’s cyber security measures. This straightforward program outlines specific methodologies and best practices that address current vulnerabilities and lay the groundwork for sustained cyber security improvements in the future.
By adopting this organised approach, organisations can streamline their cyber security efforts, ultimately leading to significant savings in time and financial resources while reducing stress for team members involved in these initiatives. Investing in Cyber Essentials ensures a proactive stance against potential threats, supporting a safer and more resilient digital environment.
There are five security controls with criteria to address cyber security effectively and mitigate the risk from cyber threats:
- Firewalls
- Secure configuration
- User access control
- Malware protection
- Security update management
Businesses usually undergo a simple self-assessment process, ensuring their IT systems and processes meet the required security standards to achieve certification. Cybersmarts Cyber Essentials offers a flexible and practical framework that helps organisations educate their workforce and avoid security threats as the digital landscape changes.
We are here to help. Contact us today to discuss your cyber security needs or complete our audit, and someone from our team will be in touch.