Think your business is too small or not at risk for a cyber attack?
Every year, thousands of UK businesses—especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—are caught off guard. And too many are still skipping the most affordable, government-backed defence available:
Cyber Essentials certification.
Why?
“We’re too small to be a target.”
“We’re not in a high-risk industry.”
“We don’t have the budget right now.”
These aren’t just excuses—they’re cybersecurity myths. Dangerous ones.
Why Cyber Essentials Is Critical for SMEs
Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed certification that helps protect organisations of all sizes from the most common cyber threats—such as malware, ransomware, phishing, and unauthorised access.
Despite its low cost and simplicity, many SMEs still don’t certify. Here's why that’s a mistake.
Myth #1: “We’re Too Small to Be a Target”
This is the biggest cybersecurity myth among small businesses.
In reality, SMEs are the most common target for cybercriminals. According to the UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey, around 32% of small businesses reported a cyber attack in the last 12 months.
Why? Because attackers know these organisations often lack basic cyber defences.
If you use email, store client information, or process online payments—you’re a target.
Myth #2: “We’re Not in a High-Risk Industry”
If your business is online in any way, you’re already in a high-risk category.
Cybercriminals go after more than just banks and hospitals. They actively target:
-
Legal firms
-
Accountants and financial advisors
-
Charities and non-profits
-
Marketing agencies
-
SME manufacturers and retailers
If you handle sensitive data, you’re valuable. And vulnerable.
Myth #3: “We Don’t Have the Budget”
Let’s put this in perspective.
The average cost of a cyber breach for a small business in the UK is £8600+. In many cases, that doesn’t include recovery time, legal fees, lost clients, or regulatory fines.
Cyber Essentials certification costs a fraction of that—and provides a clear framework to reduce your exposure to threats.
In other words, it’s not a cost. It’s an investment in business resilience.
What Does Cyber Essentials Actually Cover?
Cyber Essentials focuses on five core technical controls that block 80% of common cyber attacks:
-
Firewalls and internet gateways – Prevent unauthorized access
-
Secure configuration – Eliminate system vulnerabilities
-
Access control – Limit data access to only those who need it
-
Malware protection – Stop viruses, ransomware, and spyware
-
Patch management – Keep your systems updated and secure
These are simple, practical steps that any business—regardless of size or industry—can implement.
The Real Risk: Doing Nothing
Saying no to Cyber Essentials is like leaving your doors and windows open and hoping a thief doesn’t walk in.
Cybercriminals aren’t targeting specific companies—they’re scanning for vulnerabilities. Businesses that ignore basic cybersecurity measures are the lowest-hanging fruit.
Ignorance is no longer a defence.
Would Your Business Survive a Breach?
Consider what a serious breach could mean for your business:
-
Downtime and operational paralysis
-
Regulatory fines and insurance complications
-
Loss of client trust and reputational damage
-
Long-term financial setbacks or closure
If you’re not prepared, a cyber attack could set your business back months or even years.
Cyber Essentials Is Your First Line of Defence
Certification proves to clients, insurers, partners, and regulators that you’ve taken real steps to protect your business.
It’s quick to achieve, affordable, and designed to protect what matters most—your data, your reputation, and your future.
Cyber Essentials certification is your first, most important step toward cyber resilience.
