In June 2014, the Cyber Essentials certification was launched to provide a foundational level of cyber security for organisations of all sizes. It's purpose was to protect against the most common cyber threats. Over the past decade, Cyber Essentials has not only helped organisations bolster their own defences but also ensured confidence in their suppliers' security systems—an increasingly vital focus in today's interconnected world.

The Cyber Essentials scheme has delivered remarkable benefits:

• Increased Protection: Organisations with Cyber Essentials are 92% less likely to make cyber insurance claims.
• Growing Adoption: From September 2023 to August 2024 alone, 33,836 Cyber Essentials certificates and 10,939 Cyber Essentials Plus certificates were issued, a 21% and 20% increase, respectively, compared to the previous year.
• Improved Cyber Awareness: A staggering 88% of certified organisations reported improved understanding of cyber risks.

The initiative has grown to include over 350 Certification Bodies and nearly 900 Assessors who are helping organisations implement controls, secure their systems, and upskill the next generation of cyber professionals.

Pervade Software has been a proud technology partner behind Cyber Essentials since its inception. Our mission is to raise the minimum bar of cyber competence, and this aligns perfectly with the goals of Cyber Essentials and IASME. With 7.78 million cyber crimes reported in the UK last year, the need for such a program has never been greater.

We’re particularly proud of how Cyber Essentials has become a trusted assurance tool. With 40% of smaller organisations implementing the controls for the first time, Cyber Essentials has paved the way for businesses to improve their cyber security posture—helping not only to protect their own data but also to reassure customers and partners about their commitment to security.

As supply chain attacks continue to rise, Cyber Essentials plays a crucial role in mitigating these risks. Despite their growing prevalence, only 11% of businesses and 9% of charities currently review the risks posed by their immediate suppliers, and even fewer assess their wider supply chains.

The Cyber Essentials certification provides a clear benchmark for organisations to ensure their suppliers have implemented fundamental technical controls. It is now a requirement for many government contracts, underscoring its importance in managing third-party risk.

Looking ahead, the Cyber Essentials scheme is poised to expand its impact even further. Organisations that have adopted Cyber Essentials report:

• Increased market competitiveness (69%)
• Confidence in mitigating cyber security risks (80%)
• High recertification intent (91%)

As we celebrate a decade of Cyber Essentials, Pervade Software is proud to support efforts to help organisations across the UK navigate the complex landscape of cyber security, safeguard their assets, and strengthen trust within their supply chains.