Cyber security is an absolute must for SMEs in the modern world. 43% of UK businesses experienced a cyber-attack over the past 12 months, and SMEs lose around £3.4bn per year due to poor cyber security. SMEs often can’t afford in-house security, so it’s essential that they get the outsourcing right.
So, what essential cyber security features should SMEs look for in a service provider?
A provider should offer a robust, modern framework, not just basic tools. This framework should address human error, modern threats, and the need for a quick response.
The Five Non-Negotiable Security Capabilities (Features to Look For)
These are the five essential elements of cyber security…
1. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) or Managed Detection and Response (MDR)
Antivirus solutions have their place, but the modern cyber security landscape is an ever-shifting one, and responses must be agile. Antivirus looks for known signatures and vulnerabilities, whereas Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) provides real-time, comprehensive monitoring to detect and respond to advanced threats. It can also focus on behavioural analysis, allowing for the detection of threats that legacy antivirus software may miss.
EDR takes place at endpoints – which could be the desktop computers, laptops, or phones your team uses, or any Internet of Things (IoT) devices your small business uses. This is where many attacks take place. Managed Detection and Response (MDR) builds in the expertise of your provider and should be part of any small business cyber security checklist.
2. Mandatory Security Awareness Training & Phishing Simulation
Phishing exploits the human factor by persuading people to expose the organisation to various vulnerabilities. This may involve tricking them into giving up sensitive information or clicking on a link containing a virus. Despite heightened awareness of the issue, employees still fall for phishing scams, and the majority of businesses said that they felt phishing was the most disruptive type of attack they faced.
In light of this, it’s essential that everyone in the organisation undergoes mandatory security training. This should also be ongoing and monitored. Cyber security threats are constantly evolving, so a one-off session is not enough.
3. Centralised Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Management
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is becoming standard and should be a non-negotiable feature when it comes to cyber security best practices for business. MFA management involves setting up policies and processes requiring users to verify their identity using two or more distinct methods before gaining access to a system or resource. Providers should manage MFA across all accounts and systems, not just email.
4. Proactive Vulnerability Scanning and Patch Management
Even well-designed IT systems can turn out to have vulnerabilities that were not initially apparent. Updates may also be required to address evolving cyber security threats. Vulnerability scanning is a continuous process of checking for existing and new vulnerabilities, while patch management involves designing, testing, and installing patches that fix bugs or address new security vulnerabilities. This should be an ongoing process that sees your provider actively seeking out and fixing any issues as they arise.
5. 24/7 Incident Response and Business Continuity Planning
When making cyber security policies, you should hope for the best but prepare for the worst, which in this case involves a cyber-attack getting through. Having a tested incident response plan in place can minimise the downtime, damage, and ultimately, costs that a successful cyber-attack can cause.
Regulatory reporting requirements are also one of the key points related to the cyber security protection of a nation as a whole. Breaches that expose user data may need to be reported to the ICO.
Find out more about Clipeum’s cyber security solutions.
Beyond the Features: UK Compliance and Cost-Effectiveness
UK Compliance and Certification Support
Your provider should help you to achieve the best cyber security for small businesses in the UK and the international threat landscape. Beyond this, they must also ensure that you adhere to all relevant legal obligations, such as achieving UK GDPR compliance. When looking for cyber security for a small business, UK-based providers will have the local expertise you need.
Scalability and Affordability
Many SMEs will be running on a limited budget, but cyber security is not an area where you should cut corners. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t look for value for money. Managed services offer the expertise you need at a fixed, predictable cost.
Final Checklist: Questions to Ask Your Potential Provider
Your potential provider should be able to offer the cyber security best practices for business. As part of a small business cyber security checklist, you might also want to ask the following questions:
- What methods do you use to protect our data?
- Do you perform penetration testing or vulnerability assessments?
- What industry certifications do you hold?
- How do you stay current with the latest cyber security threats and trends?
- Do you provide a transparent billing structure?
Choosing a True Security Partner
Some SMEs may feel they are not a target, but robust cyber security is essential for all businesses these days. A comprehensive, managed security approach will provide ongoing protection, and a good provider can be thought of as an extension of the business, not just the supplier of a one-off service.
If you’re looking to secure your business, contact Clipeum today and find out how we can help.
FAQs
What compliance issues do I need to adhere to?
In the UK, you may need to meet UK GDPR, Cyber Essentials or ISO standards. Clipeum can guide you through the required steps.
What are “the five Cs of cyber security”?
Change, Compliance, Cost, Continuity, and Coverage. These elements can be used as strategic pointers when developing a cyber security policy.
What are “the five Ds of cyber security”?
Deter, Detect, Deny, Delay, and Defend. This represents a layered approach that begins with deterring would-be attackers and then defends against an actual attack.