Cyber Essentials scheme: overview
Cyber Essentials is a government-backed, industry-supported scheme to help organisations protect themselves against common online threats.
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No business is out of reach from cyber criminals.
Cyber Essentials is a set of standard technical controls organisations should have in place to protect themselves against the most common online security threats.
Cyber Essentials is suitable for all organisations, of any size, in any sector.
The scheme helps protect against almost all cyber threats. 92% fewer insurance claims are made by businesses and organisations with the Cyber Essentials controls in place.
As well as helping to guard your organisation against cyber attacks, Cyber Essentials demonstrates your commitment to cyber security to your customers and suppliers.
Holding an up to date Cyber Essentials certificate enables your business to bid for government contracts where handling of financial or personal data is involved. Cyber Essentials is increasingly being used by businesses - including leading UK banks - to ensure good cyber security in their supply chains.
Cyber Essentials comes with free cyber insurance if your business turnover is less than £20 million.
If you need help and advice in getting Cyber Essentials for your business, you can book a free 30 minute consultation with a Cyber Advisor.
The scheme was launched with backing from industry including the Federation of Small Businesses, the CBI and a number of insurance organisations which are offering incentives for businesses.
Since then, over 215,000 Cyber Essentials certificates have been awarded to businesses, charities, schools, universities and local authorities, including 49,248 issued in the past 12 months.
Cyber Advisor scheme
The Cyber Advisor scheme is now available for small and medium sized organisations. It offers reliable and cost effective cyber security advice and practical support. The scheme will help your organisation implement Cyber Essentials and protect you against most commonly experienced cyber attacks.
For more information, visit the Cyber Advisor website.
10 year anniversary of Cyber Essentials
On 23 October 2024 the government, National Cyber Security Centre and industry partners marked the 10 year anniversary of the Cyber Essentials scheme.
- Read the Minister’s speech at the Cyber Essentials 10 year event
- Read the Banks’ joint statement on the importance of Cyber Essentials
- Read the Cyber Essentials impact evaluation research
Further guidance
Free cyber security guidance, training and support is available from the government:
- Cyber security guidance for businesses
- Cyber security training for businesses
- Cyber security guidance for charities
- Create your free cyber action plan
Don’t delay - take action to protect your business now.
Updates to this page
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Updated the number of Cyber Essentials certificates awarded.
Update history
2026-03-13 16:20
Updated information on Cyber Essentials to reflect the current Cyber Essentials campaign. Added link to the ‘30 minutes free with a Cyber Advisor’ offer.
2025-05-07 11:00
Updated the number of Cyber Essentials certificates awarded.
2024-10-23 14:59
Added new information on the effectiveness of the scheme. Added details on the 10 year anniversary event. Included information on the Cyber Advisor scheme. Updated the number of certificates awarded. Updated page for clarity and understanding.
2023-03-03 14:54
Added updated link to Cyber Essentials website. Updated details about the scheme. Included links to new free cyber security guidance and training.