Cyber Essentials Plus

Cyber ​​Essentials Plus is a certification that provides a higher level of security than the basic Cyber ​​Essentials certification.

To achieve Cyber ​​Essentials Plus certification, an independent third-party evaluator performs a technical assessment of an organization’s cybersecurity controls.

This assessment includes a series of vulnerability scans and technical tests to verify that the organization’s cybersecurity controls are implemented correctly and effectively.

The tester audits the organization’s systems and applications to verify that they have been configured securely and that all known vulnerabilities have been patched.

The tester also performs penetration tests to identify any weaknesses in the organization’s network defenses.

Once the assessment is complete, the assessor provides a report detailing any vulnerabilities or weaknesses that were identified during the assessment.

The organization must then take steps to address these issues before it can achieve Cyber ​​Essentials Plus certification.

Cyber ​​Essentials Plus is typically required for organizations that process sensitive data or operate in high-risk environments, such as government agencies or financial institutions.

Provides a higher level of assurance to customers, suppliers, and other interested parties that the organization’s cybersecurity controls are effective in mitigating cyber risks.

Cyber Essentials Plus is suitable for organizations of all sizes and sectors that have implemented the basic Cyber Essentials controls and have a mature cybersecurity program. It provides a more rigorous and in-depth assessment of an organization’s cybersecurity controls and offers a higher level of assurance than the basic Cyber Essentials certification.

Cyber Essentials Plus can also be used by organizations as a way to demonstrate their cybersecurity credentials to customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders. Many large companies and government agencies require their suppliers to have Cyber Essentials Plus certification as a minimum standard for cybersecurity.

Phase 1: Assessment of the organization’s security posture

Before implementing Cyber Essentials Plus, it is important to conduct a thorough assessment of the organization’s existing security controls, policies, and procedures. This will help identify any gaps or weaknesses in the security posture that need to be addressed.

Phase 2: Development of a remediation plan

Based on the assessment, develop a remediation plan that outlines the steps that the organization needs to take to address any identified weaknesses. This plan should be based on the Cyber Essentials Plus requirements and should be tailored to the specific needs and risk profile of the organization.

Phase 3: Implementation of technical controls

Implement the technical controls required by Cyber Essentials Plus. This may include measures such as firewalls, antivirus software, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and vulnerability management tools.

Phase 4: Implementation of policies and procedures

Implement the policies and procedures required by Cyber Essentials Plus, such as access control policies, password policies, and incident response plans. These policies and procedures should be integrated into the organization’s existing governance structure and should be communicated clearly to all employees.

Phase 5: Preparation for certification

Once the technical controls and policies and procedures have been implemented, it is important to prepare for the certification process. This may involve conducting internal audits, testing the effectiveness of the controls, and ensuring that all documentation is in place.

Phase 6: Certification

Finally, assist the organization in obtaining Cyber Essentials Plus certification. This may involve coordinating with the certification body, providing evidence of compliance, and addressing any issues that arise during the certification process.