Why your it provider must have an independently certified cyber security standard

As businesses become increasingly reliant on technology, it's important to have robust cyber security measures in place to protect against cyber security risks. To help safeguard their data and systems, many businesses turn to IT support providers. However, not all IT providers have the necessary expertise to provide adequate protection against cyber threats.

One way to ensure that your IT provider has the necessary information security management is to look for an independently certified standard for cyber security. The Cyber Essentials standard is a good starting point, but it's not sufficient on its own for IT service providers. Managed support providers should be held to a higher standard, one that requires an independent audit and certification such as Cyber Essentials Plus.

Cyber Essentials

Cyber Essentials is a scheme backed by the UK government that provides guidance to businesses on how to protect against common cyber attacks. It covers five key areas:

1. boundary firewalls and internet gateways,

2. secure configuration,

3. access control,

4. malware protection, and

5. patch management.

While it's a good standard to have, it's not enough on its own for Managed Service Providers to demonstrate effective information security management.

Cyber Essentials Plus

Cyber Essentials Plus, on the other hand, is a higher level of certification that involves an independent assessment of a company's cyber security controls. This includes an external vulnerability scan and an on-site assessment of the IT systems and information security management processes. Achieving this certification demonstrates that the IT provider has taken extra steps to ensure their systems are secure from cyber attacks and they are committed to continuous improvement.

Cyber security risks

If your IT provider doesn't have an audited standard like Cyber Essentials Plus, how can you be sure that they have the necessary cyber security controls and protections in place? After all, they hold the administrative credentials for your business, and any breach could expose sensitive data and be catastrophic . Without an independent audit, it's difficult to know whether they are doing everything they should be doing or have an information security management system to protect your systems and data.

Moreover, how can your business rely on their advice with regard to your technology, information security, and strategy? If they haven't achieved a recognised certification, how can you trust that they have the necessary expertise and knowledge to provide sound advice? It's essential to have confidence in your IT provider's ability to protect your business, and an independently certified standard is one way to achieve this.

Information security management system

It's also worth noting that not all certifications are created equal. There are many cyber security certifications available, but not all of them are recognised or independently audited. When selecting an IT provider, it's crucial to do your research and ensure their certifications are legitimate, reputable and up to date.

Cyber security is a critical issue for businesses of all sizes, and it's important to have the right measures in place to protect your systems and data from cyber attacks. To ensure that your IT provider is up to the task, look for an independently certified standard for cyber security, such as Cyber Essentials Plus.

This certification demonstrates that the IT provider has put in place cyber security controls, is managing information security and has taken additional steps to ensure their systems are secure. An organisation that is committed to continuous improvement is a key behaviour that should be considered when evaluating a Managed Service Provider.

Without an independent audit of a providers cyber security, it's difficult to know whether your IT provider is doing everything they should be doing to protect your business, and how can you rely on their advice with regard to your technology, cyber security, and strategy. Therefore, if your IT provider doesn't have an audited standard, it's time to consider whether they are the right provider for your business.

If your business would like an independent information security risk assessment, please contact us.

Why is IT important to have standards for cybersecurity?

The cybersecurity standard provides a critical means to ensure that a corporation implements its security policies and strategies consistently and in measurable ways.

Why are security standards required?

Security rules increase physical security of an organisation and help with overall risk management through varying aspects. Security standards enable a shared understanding of standards and best practices by allowing a common understanding of the conditions of usage.

How important the ISO 27001 IT security management is when IT comes to business?

ISO27001 provides an improved management of risks and data protection. ISO Standardises how security management can be implemented in organisations.