iSoft
Speciality: Network and Application Penetration Testing
UK-based cybersecurity firm specializing in penetration testing and ethical hacking; headquartered in Stockport, Cheshire, UK, with a presence in Manchester. Focuses on identifying vulnerabilities and safeguarding data against advanced cyber threats.
Cyber Essentials Plus
Origin
Cyber Essentials Plus was created by the UK Government in 2014 in collaboration with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which is part of GCHQ. The scheme was developed in response to the growing threat of cyber attacks against UK businesses and organizations. It was designed to help organizations of all sizes implement basic cybersecurity controls to protect against the most common internet-based cyber threats, with the "Plus" variant including hands-on technical verification by qualified assessors.
Industry Value
Cyber Essentials Plus is highly valued because it provides verified assurance that an organization has implemented fundamental cybersecurity controls effectively. Unlike the standard Cyber Essentials self-assessment, the Plus certification requires external testing and vulnerability scanning, making it more rigorous and credible. It's increasingly required for UK government contracts involving sensitive information and is recognized by insurance providers, clients, and partners as evidence of a serious commitment to cybersecurity. The certification helps organizations demonstrate due diligence, reduce cyber risk, and differentiate themselves in competitive bidding situations.
TISAX: Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange
Origin
TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) was created by the ENX Association (European Network Exchange) in 2017 at the request of the German automotive industry, specifically the VDA (Verband der Automobilindustrie - German Association of the Automotive Industry). The certification was developed to address the automotive sector's need for a standardized, mutual recognition framework for information security assessments. It was created to reduce the burden of multiple audits on suppliers, as automotive manufacturers were each conducting their own security assessments of shared suppliers, leading to duplication and inefficiency.
Industry Importance
TISAX has become essential for companies working with the automotive industry, particularly in Europe, as many major manufacturers now require it from their suppliers and partners. The certification provides a trusted, industry-recognized validation of a company's information security practices, protecting sensitive data such as intellectual property, product designs, and business information. Its importance stems from the mutual recognition principle—once a company achieves TISAX certification, the results are shared across participating organizations, eliminating redundant audits and creating efficiency while maintaining high security standards. For suppliers, TISAX certification has become virtually mandatory to maintain or establish business relationships with automotive OEMs and tier-1 suppliers.