3B Data Security are one of the ECRC's valued Cyber Essentials Partners and part of this month's Cyber Spotlight.

Our CEPs are Cyber Essentials accreditation bodies that work within the Eastern region covered by our centre. The idea behind these partnerships is not only to build relationships with companies that, like us, understand the importance of cyber resilience; but also to signpost our members towards local companies for those wishing to build relationships or seek further advice.

As part of our monthly newsletter, which is received by all of our free members, we have a 'Cyber Spotlight', which highlights some of our partners and the work that they do. This month, we spoke to 3B Data Security, who are professionals in delivering a vast amount of services for businesses of all sizes; working not just locally, but nationally and internationally too.

Drawing on their industry experience, we asked them why Cyber Essentials is important to SMEs, and this is what they had to say:

'At 3B Data Security, we help organisations deal with cyber incidents on a regular basis and have seen first-hand how devastating the effects can be on SMEs.

The rate of cybercrime only continues to grow, so it’s vital that organisations are putting at least the minimum baseline security measures in place, and the Cyber Essentials scheme is perfect for this.

Cyber Essentials serves as a strong foundation for SMEs to build their cyber security strategy, helping them to understand how to protect their organisation against the majority of common cyber threats as identified by the NCSC.

SMEs are often unsure on where to start with cyber security and do not have the same resources as larger organisations to invest in extensive solutions. Starting with the Cyber Essentials scheme can be a good methodology to implement a security standard and be recognised for the effort of achieving the certification. Whilst it offers a starting point in security, let’s not forget that it is also a requirement to have if you want to work with the UK Government, Ministry of Defence and for many supply chains.

But Cyber Essentials certification is not just about recognition of secure practices, it is also about trust and credibility. Customers are becoming more aware of how their personal data is used, and where they share it. Having Cyber Essentials certification can help reassure clients that measures are in place for keeping data safe and secure due to the controls applied to the business systems and networks.

Another benefit to Cyber Essentials, that sometimes gets overlooked, is how it can help prepare businesses when it comes to compliance with other regulations, such as the GDPR. By establishing a robust cyber security framework, you are also laying solid groundwork for complying with other standards and data protection laws, which often have overlapping requirements with cyber security best practices.

The Cyber Essentials scheme is an essential tool for SMEs as it not only builds customer trust but helps keep your business cyber secure and compliant.'

If you are interested in finding out more about 3B Data Security you can visit their website here, or find them on our list of Cyber Essentials Partners.

Reporting a live cyber-attack 24/7:

If you are a business, charity or other organisation which is currently suffering a live cyber-attack (in progress) please call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 immediately. This service is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

Reporting a cyber-attack which is not ongoing:

Please report online to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. You can report cybercrime online at any time using the online reporting tool, which will guide you through simple questions to identify what has happened. Action Fraud advisors can also provide the help, support, and advice you need.

Alternatively, you can call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 (textphone 0300 123 2050)