FMIS Achieves Cyber Essentials Plus

Introduction to Cyber Essentials Plus Certification

At FMIS, safeguarding data is paramount. Achieving the Cyber Essentials Plus certification underscores our unwavering commitment to cyber security. This prestigious certification, backed by the UK Government, recognizes organizations implementing robust cyber defences against prevalent threats. Through rigorous technical validation, FMIS has proven its systems resilient against cyber adversities, offering our clients and partners enhanced trust in our digital operations.

Understanding Cyber Essentials

Cyber Essentials Plus represents the highest level of certification within the Cyber Essentials scheme, a UK Government-backed initiative. The scheme consists of two levels Cyber Essentials and Cyber Essentials Plus. The first level of Cyber Essentials certification involves a self-assessment questionnaire. However, the higher level involves a rigorous external review and technical audit to ensure the necessary protection during a cyber attack. This level ensures that firewalls, anti-malware defences, and access controls have been effectively implemented to repel common cyber attacks and guide the response to any cyber security breach.

The NCSC (National Cyber Security Centre) provides guidance and support for the scheme, helping to ensure that it remains relevant and effective in the face of changing cyber security threats. Securing the Cyber Essentials Plus certification is not just about resilience; it’s about establishing trust. It signals to clients, stakeholders, and suppliers that cyber security is prioritised, providing peace of mind that their data is protected against prevalent cyber threats.

Cyber Essentials Certification Process

FMIS conducted a thorough assessment against the Cyber Essentials criteria, ensuring that all technical controls are appropriate and effective. The process involves comprehensive reviews to test and develop the internal cyber security infrastructure, including upgrading systems and training staff to recognize and mitigate cyber threats.

In addition to the self-certification process in place for Cyber Essentials, the higher standard requires applicants to undertake an external annual audit through one of the government-approved certification bodies. The Cyber Essentials scheme outlines five basic security controls organisations should implement to protect themselves against many of the most common cyber attacks. These controls provide a solid foundation of cyber security measures that can significantly reduce the attack risk. The five basic controls are:

1. Firewalls and Internet Gateways: These devices manage and control the traffic between an organisation’s network and the Internet, ensuring that only necessary traffic is allowed.
2. Secure Configuration: Ensuring that systems are configured in the most secure way for the needs of the organisation. This involves removing unnecessary software, services, and settings to reduce potential vulnerabilities.
3. Access Control: Managing user access to systems and data using appropriate user privileges. This includes ensuring that users only have access to the resources they need for their roles and that proper authentication methods are in place.
4. Malware Protection: Implement appropriate malware protection measures to protect against malicious software and applications. This includes using antivirus software and ensuring it is regularly updated.
5. Patch Management: Keeping software and systems updated with the latest security patches. This involves regularly updating all software to mitigate vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.

Adhering to these controls can significantly improve organisations’ resilience against cyber threats. The Cyber Essentials scheme encourages organisations to implement these controls effectively, providing a clearer path to better cyber security practices.

Cyber Essentials Plus vs. ISO 27001

In the realm of cyber security certifications, Cyber Essentials Plus and ISO 27001 are both prestigious but serve distinct purposes. Cyber Essentials Plus, focusing on practical defence against common cyber threats, provides a robust framework for organisations to shield themselves effectively from cyber attacks. It’s a testament to an organization’s commitment to foundational cyber security practices, ensuring that critical controls are not just in place but actively effective.

ISO 27001, on the other hand, delves deeper, offering a comprehensive information security management system (ISMS) that encompasses a broader spectrum of security measures, including risk management, employee security, and information security policies. This certification is recognized globally and is more rigorous due to its requirement for continuous improvement and regular audits to ensure compliance.

While Cyber Essentials Plus focuses on operational controls, ISO 27001 encompasses a strategic approach to information security management, making it more extensive. The choice between the two often depends on an organization’s specific needs. Cyber Essentials Plus is an excellent starting point for companies focusing on operational security and ISO 27001 suited for those seeking a comprehensive ISMS framework.

Leveraging Cyber Essentials Plus for Enhanced Cyber Security

FMIS’s Cyber Essentials Plus certification attainment marks a significant milestone in our continuous journey towards cyber resilience. The certification demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding our digital infrastructure against the evolving landscape of cyber threats. By adhering to the rigorous standards required by the Cyber Essentials scheme, FMIS has further developed its cyber security measures, ensuring comprehensive protection for our systems, data, and ultimately, our clients.

Since cyber security is an ongoing endeavour, FMIS is committed to continuously maintaining and updating our security measures. Cyber Essentials certification mandates annual reassessment to ensure alignment with the latest security best practices. This proactive approach ensures compliance and fosters a culture of security awareness and vigilance across the organization.