20 January 2016

Protect yourself from cyber attack

In a world in which we transact almost entirely via the internet, keeping data safe for you, your company and your customers is paramount. High profile attacks at Talk Talk and Sony last year are just examples of how vulnerable we all are and whilst it is almost impossible to prevent entirely, the Government recognise this is a very serious issue. To that end they have teamed up with IASME (Information Assurance for SMEs) and the ISF (Information Security Forum) to develop the Cyber Essentials Scheme, whilst at the same time announcing they will only allow certified suppliers of the scheme to bid for personal information handling contracts.

Gold level Cyber Essentials was developed to be a more cost-effective alternative to ISO 27001 for small businesses and to cover gaps in technical controls associated with the existing standard. To support the printing industry the BPIF has become an accredited Gold Assessor to the scheme and can offer certification to our members at a discounted rate of £825 plus VAT (£995 plus VAT for non-members) with an annual renewal fee of just £300 plus VAT. Also included in this price is Cyber Security Insurance for a year.

Gold IASME certification provides a level of security to ISO 27001 standard and whilst there are Bronze and Silver schemes available, they both offer less protection and are not recognised sufficiently for Government contracts. IASME Gold Certification is available from £1,995 plus VAT (based on company size).

So, don't wait until your company's security has been breached before acting. For more information about BPIF Cyber Essentials contact Stewart Watkins, BPIF Head of IT, on 020 7915 8318, or email [email protected] and minimise your risk before it's too late.