Category: Cyber Essentials Blogs

As cybercrimes present more and more of a threat to companies’ efficiency. Take a step towards protecting your business by achieving a Cyber Essentials certification.

In the blog series, we educate you on the scheme and explain why achieving certification is so important. We will also give you tips, advice, and guidance on ensuring your company is as safe as possible against cyber threats.

Our team is fully qualified Cyber Essentials practitioners. Therefore can assess your application as well as guide you through the process. We manage the entire process for you from the initial audit, remedial works, and certificate issue.

  • Keeping your online accounts safe in 2023

    Keeping your online accounts safe in 2023

    Keeping our online accounts safe is high on the list of importance. However, we understand that it isn’t always at the forefront of our minds. Following best practices can seem a tedious task but it can be the difference between your accounts getting hacked.

    Everything is online these days. From business information to personal information and even payment information, our lives are online. And although technology enriches our lives, it also leaves us vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

    We understand that losing your account (no matter the size) is a scary thought. That’s why brushing up on your online safety is a lot less hassle than falling victim to cyber-attacks.

    Multi-Factor Authentication

    Setting up multi-factor authentication is arguably one of the best ways of keeping your online accounts safe. When you (or someone else) attempt to log into your account, you’ll be prompted to open multi-factor authentication.

    Microsoft authenticator is an example of a multi-factor authenticator. However, there are many more out there.

    Passwords

    Use a password even when optional

    I’m sure we’ve all heard the saying, ‘It’s better to be safe than sorry.’ This rings true when it comes to opting in for passwords.

    Declining the password option may save you two minutes in the moment. However, it heightens the chances of someone else being able to access your accounts.

    Change your password regularly

    Changing your password regularly reduces the chances of someone else being able to access your accounts. Business devices usually have a monthly prompt encouraging employees to change their passwords. However, this should be standard for personal accounts too!

    Set a reminder on your phone every 1-3 months to change all passwords. And don’t use the same password for multiple accounts!! This may seem convenient at the time but if a hacker can access one account, they can access them all.

    Choose a unique password

    We know we’re all guilty of using the classic ‘Password1234’ or the name of a family pet. It’s human nature to be compelled to pick something memorable. Even so, it’s important to remember the more simple the password, the more vulnerable your online accounts are.

    Following best practices, we recommend using a mixture of letters, numbers, and symbols. Additionally, use a mixture of numbers and letters and never include any personal information.

    Be careful when clicking links!

    It’s easy to be caught out by phishing emails. The way around this is to not just click any old link you get sent via email. If you receive an email from an unrecognisable address or something doesn’t feel right, don’t click on it! Delete the email and block the sender.

    For employers, it’s a good idea to train your employees on how to spot phishing emails.

    VPN

    Make use of a VPN (virtual private network). I’m sure we’ve all connected to a free WIFI network when in a coffee shop or when running errands. However, you don’t know anything about the security of the connection.

    It’s possible that someone else using the same network could start looking through or stealing data without your knowledge.

    A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, routing it through a server owned by the VPN company. This means nobody can snoop through your data. In addition to this, using a VPN hides your IP address.

    Are you a business looking to keep your accounts safe

    Here at the Unite Group, we understand the many cyber threats that businesses are vulnerable to. That’s why, we believe it’s important to go the extra mile when it comes to cyber security. With this in mind, we offer Cyber Essentials.

    Cyber Essentials is a Government-backed and industry-supported scheme that allows businesses to protect themselves from cyber-attacks.

    A foundation-level certificate protects your business from 80% of the most basic cyber security breaches.

    We are a certifying body of the cyber essentials scheme. If you would like to learn more about the Cyber Essentials certification, click here!

    Keep an eye out in our newsroom for more blogs like this and be sure to keep an eye on our Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for updates!

  • Let’s Breakdown Cyber Essentials

    Let’s Breakdown Cyber Essentials

    breakdown cyber essentials

    In this blog we breakdown the Cyber Essentials scheme. Explain why achieving the certification is important in simplistic terms – perfect to take straight into the next boardroom meeting. As well as, outline how simple it is to get started with achieving a Cyber Essentials certification.

    Cyber Essentials

    The Cyber Essentials certification is a UK government-backed scheme intended to provide organisations with a basic level of cyber security. The scheme is both accessible and achievable for all.

    There are two levels of certification that businesses can choose from – Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus.

    Cyber Essentials involves completing a Cyber Essentials self-assessment questionnaire which one of our qualified assessors can assist with. The questionnaire outlines the 5 key areas of cybersecurity. Ensuring sufficient measures are in place to protect both yourself and your business from the risk of falling victim to cybercrime.

    Cyber Essentials Plus, takes this certification a step further. Achieving this also requires the self-assessment questionnaire to be completed. However, it then goes further and includes a hands-on technical verification to be carried out.

    All organisations should consider gaining a Cyber Essentials to not only protect themselves. But to demonstrate to their existing and future clients that they take data cybersecurity risks seriously!

    How to explain Cyber Essentials to your boss

    So, you’ve got to this point. You think gaining a Cyber Essentials certification would be a great step to protect your business. We couldn’t agree more! But now you need to stress the importance of this to your boss. Let us help!

    Firstly, could your businesses continue to operate if you were to fall victim to one of the above statistics? We’re sure the answer is no! Therefore it is essential you put measures in place to best prevent an attack.

    As well as this, it’s a great talking point when you are selling your business to potential customers. Who wouldn’t want to work with a company who can ensure the best protection for their data? As well as this, achieving the certification opens up the opportunity to work with the Government. And the Ministry of Defense (for Cyber Essentials Plus certifications only).

    With our Cyber Essentials packages starting from just £800 and monthly payment options available, you can be sure this will be cheaper than the damage caused by the falling victim. With the certification lasting for 12 months, you can relax with peace of mind you have the correct measures in place. Annual renewal also ensures you remain up-to-date with the latest risks in the cybersecurity world. Because we all know cyber attacks are ever-evolving and becoming harder to spot and prevent year-on-year.

    How to get started with Cyber Essentials

    Getting started with a Cyber Essentials certification is easy! Simply use the booking form below to organise a quick chat with one of our qualified Cyber Essentials assessors. From there we can best advise which scheme is best for you. Our team will then guide you throughout the entire process. Ensuring you have the necessary measures in place. As well as supporting you with the assessment.

    Becoming Cyber Essentials certified is easier than you think and could save your business from the unimaginable!

    If you’d like to learn more about the process of Cyber Essentials visit our page by clicking here. Or alternatively, dive into our Cyber Essentials blog archive by clicking here!

  • Why become Cyber Essentials Certified?

    Why become Cyber Essentials Certified?

    Introduction

    The Cyber Essentials certification program is a UK government initiative that helps to protect businesses and the public sector from cyber threats. It works by providing a set of technical standards that are essential to keep your systems secure, with the goal of protecting against common vulnerabilities and attacks. The certification is designed for companies of all sizes to demonstrate they take cyber security seriously.

    What is Cyber Essentials?

    Cyber Essentials is a government-backed scheme that helps companies protect themselves from cyber threats. The scheme was launched in 2011 and is designed to help businesses protect themselves against the most common cyber-attacks. Cyber Essentials is a basic level of security that all businesses should have in place!

    Do I Need Cyber Essentials Certification?

    Cyber Essentials is a certification that the UK Government requires for all organisations working with them and other public sector bodies. It also shows your commitment to cyber security, which can be useful if you’re looking for work in this area or want to demonstrate your expertise and knowledge.

    If you are involved in any kind of digital service or system, then it’s worth considering achieving this certification as a way of demonstrating your understanding of cyber security principles and good practices.

    What Does Cyber Essentials Certification Mean?

    Cyber Essentials is an online training program that offers a baseline level of protection to your business. By taking the Cyber Essentials certification, you will learn about:

    • How to protect your company from common security threats such as malware, viruses and phishing attacks.
    • What steps are necessary to secure your company’s information and systems by implementing processes like password management, patching systems and setting up firewalls.

    About Cyber Essentials Certification

    Cyber Essentials is becoming increasingly important for companies when choosing other businesses to work with. This is because cyber attacks are on the rise, up 27.4% in 2022 when compared to the year previous. Therefore, companies are far more likely to work with a company that can demonstrate they are taking protection against this risk.

    Likewise, those who suffered attacks often found it extremely time-consuming and it had a substantial effect on their business. Therefore, businesses should not only achieve a Cyber Essentials certification for their customer’s sake. But also to protect the longevity of their business.

    You don’t need to be an experienced information security professional or have any technical knowledge in order to become Cyber Essentials certified; we can help! Our in-house qualified Cyber Essentials assessors are here to assist you throughout the entire process.

    Takeaway: Protect your company!

    You can take the steps to ensure that your company is protected from cyber threats. You can also learn how to protect your business from cybercrime, cyberterrorism, and other similar threats. The process of becoming Cyber Essentials Certified will help you do this by giving you the skills and knowledge needed to be a more effective defender of your company’s data assets.

    Conclusion

    Cyber Essentials Certification is a great way to get your company started with cybersecurity. It helps you get your employees up to speed on the basics of online security and teaches them how to recognise threats and protect against them. As well as this, it demonstrates to your customers that you take data protection seriously. Giving peace of mind that you have measures in place to best protect against the most basic cybercrimes.

    Could you afford for your business to fall at risk of an attack? Sign up for a quick call with a member of our cyber essentials team to learn how we can help protect your business!

  • Why is Cyber Essentials important for SMEs?

    Why is Cyber Essentials important for SMEs?

    In this blog, we cover why achieving a Cyber Essentials certification is important for SMEs.

    cyber essentials for SMEs

    Introduction

    Cyber-attacks are among the biggest threats facing businesses today. While the threat of cyber-attacks is nothing new, they are becoming more frequent and more sophisticated. You might have heard about some of the high profile attacks on companies like Sony Pictures or Tesco Bank, but it’s important to understand that these large organisations have teams dedicated to cyber security who can invest significant resources into protecting their systems. For SMEs however, this type of investment is not always possible or practical – which is where cyber essentials come in!

    Cyber-attacks are becoming more frequent

    You may have noticed that cyber-attacks are becoming more frequent, both in terms of the number of attacks and the amount of damage they cause. The falling cost of cyber-crime is also a factor: criminals can now launch damaging web intrusions for less than £1000. As a result, businesses need to be vigilant about protecting their digital assets and complying with data protection laws such as GDPR.

    Cyber-attacks can harm your reputation

    Without a doubt, cyber-attacks can harm your reputation. If you’re unprepared or don’t have the right systems in place to prevent them, they can damage your brand and customer service. They could even affect the relationships you have with suppliers and customers.

    The importance of Cyber Essentials certification is clear: it shows that your organisation has an effective approach to protecting customer data and information security.

    Cyber-attacks often result in financial loss

    Cyber-attacks on small and medium sized businesses can result in a range of financial loss, including:

    • Loss of confidential information
    • Loss of intellectual property
    • Customer data stolen/lost (e.g., names, addresses and credit card details)
    • Business reputation damaged due to the impact of cybercrime on customers’ trust.
    • Financial assets lost as a consequence of criminal activity or fraud committed using stolen credentials.

    Cyber-attacks are not just a security issue

    Cyber-attacks are not just a security issue. They can lead to financial loss and harm your reputation, as well as the reputations of your customers. Cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly frequent:

    • In the UK, cyber-crime costs business £27 billion per year.
    • The average cost of a data breach is $3.62 million in North America and $3.45 million in Europe (according to Ponemon Institute’s “2017 Cost of Data Breach Study”)

    If you’re an SME, having cyber essentials is vital

    Cyber Essentials is a voluntary, self-certification scheme to help small and medium sized businesses protect themselves from cyber threats. It’s based on the five essential controls and recommended by industry bodies such as BCS, ISACA and CIPFA.

    The Cyber Essentials scheme is endorsed by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The NCSC has introduced this framework for SMEs because it’s aware that smaller organisations are less likely to have in-house expertise or resources available for maintaining good cyber security practices.

    Conclusion

    If you’re an SME, cyber essentials are vital to protect both your brand and your bottom line. By implementing the best strategies for lessening the impact of cyber-attacks, you can ensure that your business is as safe as possible from these threats. And when it comes down to it, there’s no reason why SMEs shouldn’t be just as prepared as larger companies – after all, they face similar risks and need just as much protection!

     Are you an SME looking to achieve a Cyber Essentials certification?

    Why not arrange a free consultation with our team today where we can discuss in depth the Cyber Essentials process. As well as which certification would be needed to support your business. Use the booking system below to select a time that is convenient for you.

  • How much do you really know about Cyber Essentials? Take our Cyber Essentials Quiz

    How much do you really know about Cyber Essentials? Take our Cyber Essentials Quiz

    cyber essentials quiz

    Test your knowledge with our Cyber Essentials Quiz. If you’ve been following our blogs for a while you should be pretty clued up on Cyber Essentials by now! If you’re not sure you know quite enough about Cyber Essentials just yet, click here to go to our Cyber Essentials archive. To brush up on your knowledge first.

    Once you’ve completed our Cyber Essentials quiz, test your knowledge using the answers at the bottom of the page.

    Ready?

    Cyber Essentials Quiz

    This quiz consists of 15 questions that cover the basics of the Cyber Essentials scheme.

    Question 1

    Finish the sentence – Cyber Essentials is a …

    1. Government-backed scheme
    2. an Anti-Virus software
    3. service from Microsoft

    Question 2

    Finish the sentence – Cyber Essentials offers protection from…

    1. hard drive failure
    2. Cyber Threats
    3. broadband failure

    Question 3

    Who is Cyber Essentials developed and operated by?

    1. NCSC
    2. NCCC
    3. UK Government

    Question 4

    Finish the sentence – Cyber Essentials is for

    1. Large Organisations
    2. One-man bands
    3. Organisations of all sizes

    Question 5

    True or False? – Cyber Essentials & the Cyber Essentials Plus certification both use the same self-assessment questionnaire?

    1. True
    2. False

    Question 6

    How long is a Cyber Essentials certification valid for?

    1. 6 months
    2. 12 months
    3. 3 years

    Question 7

    True or False? – Malware Protection is one of the 5 key areas Cyber Essentials covers and assesses?

    1. True
    2. False

    Question 8

    Fill in the blank – Having a Cyber Essentials certification offers you protection from around ___% of the most basic cybercrimes.

    1. 50%
    2. 75%
    3. 80%

    Question 9

    True or False? – To bid for contracts working with either the Government or the Ministry of Defence, organisations must hold a Cyber Essentials certification?

    1. True
    2. False

    Question 10

    True or False? – The Unite Group has qualified Cyber Essentials assessors in-house?

    1. True
    2. False

    Question 11

    In 2021, what percentage of businesses identified a cyber-attack on their business?

    1. 26%
    2. 39%
    3. 44%

    Question 12

    In 2021, what was the average cost of a cyber-attack on a small business?

    1. £1500
    2. £4200
    3. £3500

    Question 13

    How many questions are in the Cyber Essentials self-assessment questionnaire in total?

    1. 100
    2. 50
    3. 70

    Question 14

    True or False? – The Unite Group can assist you and your business throughout the entire Cyber Essentials certification process.

    1. True
    2. False

    Question 15

    True or False? – With cyber threats & attacks on the rise, there has never been a more important time to consider achieving a Cyber Essentials certification.

    1. True
    2. False

    The Answers

    How do you think you did? Let’s check the answers.

    1. A                2. B        3. A        4. C       5. A                        6. B                        7. A                       8. C                       9. A               10. A                     11. B                      12. B                     13. C                      14. A                     15. A

    So, did you know as much as you thought after taking our Cyber Essentials quiz?

    If you scored high, well done! Now you’re an expert in the basics of Cyber Essentials it’s time to start thinking about achieving a certification. Here at The Unite Group, we can assist and guide you throughout the process to ensure your organisation meets the necessary criteria.

    If you scored lower than you expected then we are here to help! Not only do we have an archive of blogs. But we also have qualified Cyber Essentials assessors in-house to assist you and your business. Why not arrange a call today to chat with our team and learn more about the Cyber Essentials scheme.

  • What are the 5 Cyber Essentials?

    What are the 5 Cyber Essentials?

    5 cyber essentials

    In this blog, we cover the 5 cyber essentials elements. The Cyber Essentials certification assessment covers all 5 of these areas. Certification can only be achieved if all 5 areas are in place within a business.

    Cyber Essentials

    As covered in previous blogs, Cyber Essentials is a Government backed scheme. Which aims to protect your business against 80% of the most common cyber threats & attacks. Here at The Unite Group, we are a Cyber Essentials awarding body. With in-house Cyber Essentials qualified assessors. Therefore we can provide support throughout the process. As well as complete the final assessment.

    The 5 Cyber Essentials

    The Cyber Essentials scheme can be broken down into 5 sections. Below we cover each and explain its importance. As well as its relevance in protecting you against cyber-attacks.

    Secure Configuration

    This involves ensuring all your devices are using the most secure settings and software. We all know it can be easy to forget to remove software or users you no longer use. However, this is extremely important! These simple changes can protect you again potential cyber-attacks. Such changes include simply changing your passwords regularly. As well as ensuring you only have the software you use on your devices. These measures are quick to do and efficient at protecting your data from being compromised.

    Software Updates

    Likewise, software updates are also a very effective way to protect your data. Therefore, the Cyber Essentials scheme ensures all devices carry out updates to ensure they stay up-to-date with the latest software. Software updates not only include new features. But also security patches that protect you against the newest cyber-attacks and vulnerabilities. Cyber Essentials cannot be achieved if all devices are not kept up to date on the latest updates.

    Access Control

    As part of the Cyber Essentials assessment, it covers who has access to your files. Within busy businesses, this is something than can be overlooked. However, it is very important! Are you sure only those who need access to your files can? Do all your staff really need access to the files they currently can?  We recommend having managed access to an administrator account. This, therefore, means you can protect who has access to your data and services.

    Firewalls & Routers

    Furthermore, Firewalls & Routers also make up one of the Cyber Essentials. Firewalls are designed to protect businesses from users who are not authorised from gaining access. Therefore by having a firewall in place, you create a so-called ‘buffer zone between your IT network and any other external links. Having these measures in place allows you to analyse incoming traffic. Meaning you are in complete control of who has access to your account. This massively protects your business from hackers.

    Malware Protection

    Malware protection is the final key part of the Cyber Essentials scheme. Using properly configured anti-malware software will protect you from viruses and other malware risks. Anti-malware software will only allow trusted applications to run which reduces the risk of unsafe applications running in the background without you knowing.

    With cyber-attacks on the rise, you can’t afford to not protect your business from cybercrimes!

     Are you ready to take the first steps in achieving a Cyber Essentials Certification and protecting your business?

    Why not arrange a free consultation with our team today where we can discuss in depth the Cyber Essentials process. As well as which certification would be needed to support your business. Use the booking system below to select a time that is convenient for you.

    Alternatively, contact us today by giving us a call or dropping us an email.

  • Festive season cyber threats: Are you prepared?

    Festive season cyber threats: Are you prepared?

    Festive season cyber threats: Are you prepared?

    Have you thought about the cyber threats your business could face this festive season?

    Christmas is around the corner and most businesses are beginning to unwind and prepare for the festivities. Therefore, our minds are filled with presents, wrapping, and preparing the Christmas dinner. But as we begin to let our guards down, hackers are waiting on the sidelines for their perfect time to strike.

    It’s easy to get swept away in the Christmas cheer. But just because we stop doesn’t mean the cyber threats do. In fact, our downtime is a hacker’s dream and as we slow down, they get ready to attack. Have you stopped to think about the cyber threats your business could face during the holiday season?

    Not to worry. We’ve pulled together some things to think about during the most wonderful time of the year. We’re outlining a few of the main cyber threats you may face throughout the festive period. This means you can feel safe and enjoy the holidays with the confidence that your business is protected.

    Phishing Emails

    A phishing email is a cybercrime that contacts its target via email. The sender poses as a legitimate institution to lure individuals to hand over sensitive business information. This information is then exploited or used for financial gain.

    There are 3 types of phishing emails to look out for:

    • Spear phishing – an attempt directed at a particular individual or company.
    • Clone phishing – hackers use a legitimate, previously delivered, part of online correspondence to create almost identical emails.
    • Whaling – an attempt directed specifically at a senior executive or high-profile target within the business.

    It’s important to make your employees aware of phishing emails and teach them how to spot them.

    Weak passwords

    It’s easy to fall into the trap of using the same passwords for multiple accounts. However, this can result in leaving the business open and vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

    Amongst the hustle and bustle of the Christmas period, take some time to ask yourself the important question: Are your passwords secure?

     Do they have the complexity to make it difficult for cyber criminals to breach?

    Before locking up the office for Christmas, double-check that your passwords comply with best practices.

    We suggest you create strong passwords by following the below steps:

    • Use a combination of upper-and lower- case letters.
    • Include numbers.
    • Include special characters (symbols).
    • Never include any personal information.
    • Never use the same password for different applications.
    • Ensure your passwords are at least 12 characters long.

    Misconfiguration of Devices

    When did you last configure all your devices? Is your firewall up and working properly?

    It’s important to ask yourself these questions before getting wrapped up in all the festivities.

    When cyber security software is updated or changed, misconfigurations become the most prevalent. This leaves your business vulnerable and open to a cyber-attack.

    It is vital that your firewall is correctly configured and up to date to protect your business from hackers.

    Before leaving for Christmas, double-check everything is updated and correctly configured. This means you can enjoy the holidays and have peace of mind that your business isn’t left vulnerable to cyber threats.

    Cyber Essentials Certification

    Here at The Unite Group, we understand the many cyber threats that businesses face day in and day out. We believe businesses should go the extra mile when it comes to cyber security. One way of doing this is to obtain the Cyber Essentials certification.

    A foundation-level certificate protects your business from 80% of the most basic cyber security breaches.

    The Cyber Essentials scheme covers 5 key areas of cybersecurity:

    • Access Control
    • Software Updates
    • Firewalls & Routers
    • Secure Configuration
    • Malware Protection

    The Unite Group is a certifying body of the cyber essentials scheme. If you would like to learn more about the Cyber Essentials certification, click here!

    Keep an eye out in our newsroom for more blogs like this and be sure to keep an eye on our Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram for updates!

  • How can we provide Cyber Essentials support?

    How can we provide Cyber Essentials support?

    cyber essentials support man with a laptop

    In this blog we talk through the guidance you can seek for Cyber Essentials support.

    So, you’ve realised you need a Cyber Essentials certification but you are unsure where to start?

    Well here at The Unite Group, we strongly recommend using a registered, qualified Cyber Essentials awarding body. Like our team here! This is because qualified assessors can guide you through the process to ensure your company completes the certification criteria correctly. By accessing Cyber Essentials support you are likely to achieve the certification much faster. Although you could go through the process without support, it is likely to be time-consuming for you. Instead, we recommend you seek Cyber Essentials support from experts who understand the rules and regulations. As well as how to apply them to a business.

    What is a Cyber Essentials certification?

    Before we dive into how to seek support through gaining the Cyber Essentials certification. Let’s first cover what the certification is. Cyber Essentials is a scheme that helps you guard your organisation against cyber attacks. It is a government-backed scheme to provide protection against the most common cyber-attacks.

    There are two levels of certification that can be achieved.

    Cyber Essentials

    This is the most basic option. The assessment includes a self-assessment question. This certification gives peace of mind that you have the basic measures of protection in place. Click here to read more about this certification and how we can provide Cyber Essentials support.

    Cyber Essentials Plus

    This is a higher-level certification and demonstrates you are taking precautions against attacks. Achieving this certification includes the same self-assessment as Cyber Essentials as well as an external vulnerability scan & internal testing. Click here to read more about this certification.

    Can you fail Cyber Essentials?

    Yes! This certification requires an assessment and therefore it is possible to fail. However, if you are guided through the process by a qualified assessor this is unlikely. This is a further reason why we recommend seeking Cyber Essentials support.

    A fail will incur further costs to re-sit the assessment. As well as any additional support you then seek in order to do so. Therefore having support from an awarding body, such as ourselves, right from the start can prevent any additional costs.

    Do I need to renew Cyber Essentials?

    Yes! Cyber Essentials certifications must be renewed annually to ensure all procedures are up to date. This also ensures you are protected against the latest types of cyber attacks.

    Here at The Unite Group, you can take out our Cyber Essentials support on a monthly payment basis. Not only does this split the cost. This also means we will support you annually when you must renew your certification.

    Our pricing for your managed Cyber Essentials certification is £800, this can be split into 10 payments of £80.

    Cyber Essentials Plus starts at £1200, again this can be managed with 10 payments of £120.

    Cyber Essentials support

    As an awarding body with Cyber Essentials qualified assessors in-house. We can provide support throughout the whole process. From defining the scope right up to preparing for the examination. Our dedicated, friendly team is on hand to help wherever you require a little extra support.

    Are you ready to take the first steps in achieving your Cyber Essentials certification?

    Why not arrange a free consultation with our team today where we can discuss in depth the Cyber Essentials process. As well as which certification would be needed to support your business. Use the booking system below to select a time that is convenient for you.

    Alternatively, contact us today by giving us a call today or dropping us an email.

  • Computer Security Day

    computer security day

    Today marks National Computer Security Day.

    This day demands our attention every year due to the shift to a more digital way of life. Although technology has enriched our lives, it has also left us vulnerable to data security issues and cyber-attacks.

    It’s no secret that the introduction of electronic devices has made our lives easier. However, that doesn’t mean it comes without its complications.

    This unofficial holiday reminds both people and businesses to stay on top of their computer security.

    In this blog, we’ll share some tips on how to keep on top of computer security.

    1. Create strong passwords

    I’m sure we’ve all fallen victim to the memorable password of ‘Password123’ or ‘Password12345.’ Despite, this making life easier for us, it also makes you more vulnerable to cyber-attacks.

    We suggest you create strong passwords by following the below steps:

    • Use a combination of upper-and lower- case letters.
    • Include numbers.
    • Include special characters (symbols).
    • Never include any personal information.
    • Never use the same password for different applications.
    • Ensure your passwords are at least 12 characters long.

    2. Keep all software up to date

    We’re fully aware of the painstaking amount of time it takes to update software. And we’re all guilty of clicking the little ‘X’ and leaving it to a later date. However, you are taking a serious risk every time you do this!  

    Software updates have multiple benefits and they all come down to protecting your computer security.

    Software updates are specifically designed to strengthen the stability of any software and combat the latest viruses.

    3. Ensure you have antivirus software in place

    Having an antivirus software installed on your electronic device sounds like a no brainer and we agree with this notion.

    Not having this could result in a slow device, or having important files damaged or deleted. To prevent this from happening, it is vital you have antivirus software installed.

    Are you looking to download an antivirus software but don’t know where to start?

    Our helpdesk team are on hand to help, contact us today!

    4. Regularly backup your data

    Ever spent hours on an important document but the file becomes corrupted?

    This disheartening situation is easy to avoid if you regularly backup your data.

    Here at The Unite Group, we recommend using the 3-2-1 approach for best practice:

    • Make sure you have THREE copies of your data,
    • On TWO different storage mediums,
    • And with ONE off-site copy.

    5. Cyber Essential Certification

    Businesses should go the extra mile when it comes to cyber security. One simple way of doing this is to achieve the Cyber Essentials certification.

    Cyber Essentials is a government-backed and industry-supported scheme that allows businesses to protect themselves from cyber-attacks.

    A foundation level certificate protects your business for 80% of the most basic cyber security breaches.

    The Cyber Essentials scheme covers 5 key areas of cybersecurity:

    • Access Control
    • Software Updates
    • Firewalls & Routers
    • Secure Configuration
    • Malware Protection

    The benefits of obtaining the Cyber Essentials certification:

    • It prevents around 80% of cyberattacks.
    • It presents you with new business opportunities and can boost your reputation,
    • Demonstrate to your customers/clients that you take cybersecurity seriously.
    • It provides you with the opportunity to work with the Government.
    • Be listed on the NCSC’s database.
    • Demonstrate your commitment to data protection.

    Upon completion of Cyber Essentials, businesses are then presented with the opportunity to move on to Cyber Essentials Plus.

    If you would like to learn more about the Cyber Essentials certification, click here!

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  • Cyber Essentials vs ISO 27001

    Cyber Essentials vs ISO 27001

    cyber essentials vs ISO 27001

    What is the difference between Cyber Essentials vs ISO 27001?

    We often get asked by companies looking to strengthen their cybersecurity which is the better option Cyber Essentials vs ISO 27001. Here at The Unite Group we always stress how different the two schemes are and that they should not be compared but instead accepted as two very different schemes which both enhance a company’s security stance.

    In this article, we discuss the two schemes and offer further information for any business looking to improve its cybersecurity.

    Cyber Essentials

    What is it?

    The Cyber Essentials scheme is a Government backed scheme that covers 5 key areas of cybersecurity; access control, software updates, firewalls & routers, secure configuration & malware protection. The aim of this scheme is to protect against the most common forms of cyber-attacks. This certification is also required to bid for Government contracts.

    What does it aim to protect?

    By completing the Cyber Essentials certificate, your organisation is effectively protecting itself against approximately 80% of the most common cyber-attacks. This is because this scheme protects your data and programs on hardware such as computers, networks, servers and any other elements in your IT infrastructure.

    Who should consider being a part of the Cyber Essentials scheme?

    All organisations who want to protect their businesses should partake in the scheme. Not only does it protect your business. But it also demonstrates to your clients that they can be confident their data will be in safe hands. Therefore any business that is looking to implement basic cybersecurity measures should look into achieving the certification.

    Also, for any businesses that wishes to bid for Government contracts this certification is a prerequisite. Therefore, if you wish for your business to be considered for such opportunities you should begin the process of achieving this as soon as possible.

    ISO 27001

    What is it?

    ISO 27001 is a set of standards that have been designed to keep information assets secure. This certification allows you to manage the security of assets including financial information, intellectual property, employee details and any information entrusted to you from third parties. ISO 27001, therefore, has more elements within its scope. ISO 27001 has 10 clauses and 114 generic security controls grouped into 14 sections

    What does it aim to protect?

    ISO 27001 differs from Cyber Essentials as it aims to protect all information and data regardless of where it is found. Meaning the certification covers hard copies, digital & data stored within information systems.

    Who should consider achieving ISO 27001?

    Similarly to Cyber Essentials, any business that wishes to demonstrate that they take data protection seriously should work towards achieving the certification. Some organisations sometimes choose to implement the standard to ensure they are following recommended guidelines. Others however choose to complete the certification to reassure their customer’s and client’s.

    So, is Cyber Essentials the same as ISO 27001?

    In short, no. However, the two complement one another.

    We recommend anyone without both a Cyber Essentials certification and ISO 27001 consider achieving both certifications at the same time. In terms of time & money, this proves to be the most effective.

    However, if this is not an option, we suggest you opt for achieving Cyber Essentials first. This scheme follows a simpler process and will introduce you to the world of certification and data protection.

    How can we help?

    Here at The Unite Group, we are certified Cyber Essentials assessors. Therefore, we can guide you throughout the process as well as assess your application for certification. Our friendly team is on hand to assist throughout the self-assessment questionnaire.

    Want to learn more? Book an appointment with our Cybersecurity team today!