Methods
Speciality: Internal Infrastructure Pentesting
UK-based private IT & Services company specializing in digital transformation and cybersecurity; 313 employees, $148.4M revenue, founded 1990, headquartered in London, UK; provides penetration testing services with active engagements and case studies demonstrating expertise.
CREST Cybersecurity Certification
Origin
CREST (Council of Registered Ethical Security Testers) was established in 2006 in the United Kingdom by a group of cybersecurity professionals and industry representatives. It was created to address the growing need for standardized, recognized qualifications in penetration testing and cybersecurity services. The organization emerged from concerns about the quality and professionalism of security testing services, aiming to provide a framework that would certify both individual practitioners and the companies that employ them.
Industry Value
CREST certifications are highly valued in the cybersecurity industry because they demonstrate a practitioner's technical competence and adherence to professional ethical standards. Many government agencies, financial institutions, and large corporations specifically require CREST-certified professionals when procuring penetration testing or security assessment services. The certification provides assurance to employers and clients that certified individuals have been independently verified to possess the necessary skills and knowledge, and that they follow established codes of conduct. This makes CREST credentials particularly important for cybersecurity professionals working in regulated industries or seeking to work with organizations that have stringent security requirements.
Cyber Essentials Certification
Origin
Cyber Essentials was created by the UK Government in 2014 in collaboration with industry experts and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The scheme was developed in response to the growing threat of cybercrime and the recognition that many cyber attacks could be prevented through basic security controls. It was designed to help organizations of all sizes protect themselves against common internet-based threats and establish a baseline of cybersecurity hygiene.
Industry Value and Importance
Cyber Essentials is highly valued in both public and private sectors as it demonstrates an organization's commitment to cybersecurity. UK government contracts involving handling of sensitive and personal information require Cyber Essentials certification as a mandatory prerequisite. Beyond compliance, the certification helps organizations reduce their vulnerability to approximately 80% of common cyber attacks, provides insurance benefits with some providers offering premium reductions, and serves as a trust signal to customers and partners. Many businesses also require their suppliers to hold the certification as part of their supply chain security requirements, making it increasingly important for maintaining competitive advantage in the marketplace.
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.
- Ministry of Justice
- Department for Environment
- Food & Rural Affairs
- Department of Health and Social Care
- Department for Education
- NHS England
- Home Office
- Swindon Borough Council