IASME: The NCSC’s Official Cyber Essentials Partner
In this guide, we delve into IASME’s role in implementing the National Cyber Security Centre’s (NCSC’s) Cyber Essentials scheme and how this partnership impacts the world of cyber security.
Who are IASME Consortium?
The Information Assurance for Small and Medium Enterprises (IASME) Consortium was created in 2010, to help small and medium businesses ensure that they keep their data as secure as possible, and to develop a greater understanding of how to stay safe online. IASME is a cyber security certification body that offers a range of cyber security certifications. These include Cyber Essentials, IASME Governance, and GDPR Readiness certification. With the NCSC, IASME has been at the forefront of helping businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), secure their cyber environments.
IASME Consortium became the National Cyber Security Centre’s (NCSC) Cyber Essentials Partner back in April 2020. The official torch was passed to them from the five original accreditation bodies and this partnership has played a crucial role in securing the cyber ecosystem in the UK and globally.
IASME’s mandate is to help businesses guard against common cyber threats and to showcase their commitment to cyber security. It’s a journey, not a destination. Herein lies the cornerstone of the partnership – providing a roadmap for continuous cyber risk management for businesses.
IASME’s Role in Implementing the Cyber Essentials Scheme
As the official partner of the NCSC, IASME has been entrusted with the responsibility of managing and delivering the Cyber Essentials scheme. They do this by ensuring the organisations they certify have implemented five key technical controls critical for mitigating cyber risk.
The Five Pillars of Cyber Essentials
The Cyber Essentials scheme rests on five pillars. These are: secure configuration, boundary firewalls, access controls, patch management, and malware protection. These elements represent the core of any robust cyber security infrastructure.
The Impact of the IASME-NCSC Partnership on SMEs
SMEs often face significant hurdles in implementing cyber security measures due to limited resources. The IASME-NCSC partnership has been instrumental in providing affordable and efficient cyber security solutions to these businesses.
IASME’s Contribution to Building Trust in the Digital World
Trust in the digital world is largely built on security. By implementing the Cyber Essentials scheme, IASME has fostered a more secure digital landscape where businesses can thrive without the constant fear of cyber threats.
Recognition and Adoption of Cyber Essentials Beyond the UK
While the Cyber Essentials scheme was launched by the UK government, its benefits have not been limited to the UK alone. It has been recognised and adopted by several organisations across the globe. From European nations to North America, Australia, and parts of Asia, businesses have adopted the scheme as part of their cyber security protocol.
A notable example is the United States, where businesses, particularly those having trade relations with UK entities, have opted for the Cyber Essentials certification. Similarly, Canadian companies dealing with UK defence contracts are mandated to obtain this certification, reinforcing the importance and global standing of the Cyber Essentials scheme.
Relevance in International Standards
The guidelines outlined in the Cyber Essentials scheme resonate with the principles set by other international cyber security standards, such as the ISO 27001. As a result, organisations aiming to align with these global standards find value in acquiring the Cyber Essentials certification.
The IASME Consortium’s Global Outreach
The IASME Consortium’s efforts to promote the Cyber Essentials scheme beyond the UK have significantly contributed to its international acceptance. Through collaborations with global partners, the consortium has helped spread the scheme’s reach, allowing more businesses worldwide to benefit from the robust, yet practical security controls that the scheme proposes. The IASME Consortium continues to drive this initiative (in partnership with the NCSC), ensuring a safer digital world for businesses across the globe.
Conclusion
In a world increasingly dominated by digital technology, having robust cyber security measures is non-negotiable. IASME’s role as the NCSC’s official Cyber Essentials partner is a significant stride towards making the digital landscape a safer place for businesses. With the continued partnership of these two entities, the future of cyber security looks promising.
FAQs on IASME Consortium
Who is IASME?
IASME Consortium is a cyber security certification body that was appointed by the National Cyber Security Centre as the official Cyber Essentials Partner in 2020.
What is the NCSC?
The National Cyber Security Centre is part of the UK Government Communications Headquarters and is responsible for advising and supporting organisations with cyber security. For more information, you can read our full article on NCSC – The Organisation Behind Cyber Essentials.
What is the Cyber Essentials Scheme?
The Cyber Essentials scheme is a government-backed initiative that outlines five basic controls for protecting organisations against common cyber threats. You can find out more by reading our Ultimate Guide to Cyber Essentials Certification.
How does IASME’s partnership with the NCSC impact SMEs?
The partnership has enabled SMEs to gain affordable and efficient cyber security solutions, allowing them to protect themselves from common cyber threats.
Is the Cyber Essentials scheme recognised outside the UK?
Yes, the scheme has gained international recognition and has been adopted by various organisations globally.
How do I go about getting my business certified for Cyber Essentials?
Alliance Solutions offer a consultancy service for Cyber Essentials certification, helping businesses prepare for the assessments and running a range of vulnerability scans and audits which help inxrease your chances of passing first time.