Techforce
Speciality: Infrastructure and Application Penetration Testing
UK-based cybersecurity firm headquartered in Aberdeen and Edinburgh; offers penetration testing, cyber maturity assessments, Cyber Essentials certification, virtual CISO, vulnerability management, and managed security services; specializes in protecting businesses from cyber threats with expert consulting and testing solutions.
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.
- Glenalmond College
- Ansearch
- New Homes Quality Board
- Cyberdan
- Hydro Group
- Granite AVI
- Osprey Housing
- AutoSpray
- Condatis
- Enmasse2
- West Pier Telecom Ltd
- V.Ships
- TRP Global
- Harnham Search and Selection Ltd
- Advantage 1
- Adaptovate
- Monarch Care UK
- Celltrak Technologies
- St Leonards School
- Strategem
- Cigniti
- Better Gov
- ESK Control
- Bruchou & Funes de Rioja
- ESA Retail
- Net Zero Technology Centre
- Graham's The Family Dairy
- Drivetech
- Mintra
- NorthLink Ferries
- POP Communications
- Sustainable Seafoods/GT Seafoods
- Chicane Security