The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way cyber criminals target those they want to exploit.
With this in mind, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has launched the Cyber Essentials Readiness Tool which helps firms prepare themselves for Cyber Essentials certification.
The tool has been developed by IASME and asks firms a series of questions relating to the main Cyber Essentials criteria to help prepare them for certification. Once firms have completed the survey they are sent a bespoke action plan to help them to prepare for the process.
Sarah Lyons, NCSC Deputy Director for Economy and Society, said:
“The Cyber Essentials Readiness Tool is a fantastic starting point for organisations who are unsure about where to start their preparation for Cyber Essentials certification.
“Not only does the tool highlight areas where more cyber security controls need to be in place, it also provides guidance on how to implement them.
“Everyone should care about their businesses’ online security and I’d encourage people to take advantage of the new tool.”
Tom Lyes, Director of Engagement at Lawyer Checker, said:
“We’ve already seen law firms looking to gain the Cyber Essentials Plus standard find this a really useful starting point. The guidance provided by the tool clears up an area which was tricky to navigate for firms unsure of where to start. By combining the tool with working with an assessment centre dedicated to the legal sector such as Lawyer Checker this should speed up the time it takes to become certified and improve the journey of doing so. “
More about Cyber Essentials
Cyber Essentials is a government backed scheme that helps protect UK businesses against a range of common cyber threats.
Achieving Cyber Essentials certification allows businesses to
- reassure customers that they have put measures in place to secure their IT against cyber attacks
- attract new business with the promise they have independently verified cyber security measures in place
- have a clear picture of their cyber security level, and
- apply for some government contracts which require Cyber Essentials certification
