By Grant Mossman, CEO & Co-Founder 4D Limited

Imagine this: you walk into your store only to find empty shelves and the cash register smashed.

 

That’s what a cyber attack can feel like for your business, except it happens silently and online, and the damage can be far worse than stolen goods.

As a cyber security professional, I see businesses of all sizes fall victim to cyber attacks daily. It’s not a matter of if but when. But there is some hope! Just like locking your doors and installing an alarm protects your physical store, Cyber Essentials can safeguard your business from cyber threats.

What is Cyber Essentials?

Think of it as a basic hygiene kit for your digital defences. It’s a government-backed scheme that outlines five essential controls every business should have in place to protect itself from common cyber threats:

  1. Firewalls: Imagine them as digital bouncers, keeping bad guys out of your systems.
  2.  Secure Configuration: This is like checking that your locks and windows are secured – ensuring your systems are set up safely.
  3.  Access Control: Only giving access to authorised personnel, just like you wouldn’t give everyone a key to your store!
  4.  Malware Protection: Think of it as antivirus software, but for businesses, stopping malicious programs from causing harm.
  5. Patch Management: Regularly fixing software weaknesses is like patching up cracks in your walls – it stops attackers from exploiting them.

Why is it important for EVERY business?

No matter your size or industry, you have valuable information: customer data, financial records, and intellectual property. Hacker’s target everyone, and even a small attack can have devastating consequences. Cyber Essentials is your first line of defence, regardless of your technical expertise.

Benefits of being Cyber Essentials certified:

  • Reduced risk of attacks: By implementing these controls, you make yourself a more challenging target for hackers.
  • Improved reputation: Show your customers and partners you take security seriously, boosting trust and confidence.
  • Compliance with regulations: Many industries require basic cyber security measures, and Cyber Essentials helps you meet them.
  • Peace of mind: Knowing you’ve taken steps to protect your business gives you valuable peace of mind

Cyber Essentials isn’t scary or expensive.  It’s designed for businesses of all sizes and technical abilities.

Investing in Cyber Essentials is like investing in your business’s future.

4D can you help you secure what’s important to you. For more information, click here.