How Cyber Essentials Can Protect Your Hull Business from Cyber Threats

Cyber threats are something that all businesses should take seriously, and whether you are a small or medium-sized business in Hull, protecting yourself from cyber criminals is key. Cyber security is something you simply can’t afford to ignore, which is where Cyber Essentials comes in.

Cyber Essentials is a government-backed scheme that is simple, cost-effective and provides protection against some of the most common cyber threats. Developed by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), it sets out five key controls, that when properly implemented can prevent most cyber attacks:

1. Firewalls and internet gateways – keeping unauthorised users out
2. Secure configuration – ensuring your systems are set up correctly
3. User access control – making sure staff only access what they need
4. Malware protection – guarding against viruses and other malicious software
5. Patch management – updating software to fix known vulnerabilities

Working with a Cyber Essentials certified business like Reality Solutions shows you take cybersecurity seriously – to customers, suppliers and even cyber criminals!

Why Should Hull Businesses Care?

Hull has a thriving business community, from digital start-ups in the C4DI Tech Hub, to long-standing manufacturers and retail giants. However as the city continues to grow, so do the risks of cyber attacks. Here are just a few reasons why Cyber Essentials is something you should take seriously:

1. Your business is not too small to be attacked

Cyber criminals actually tend to target smaller organisations over larger ones as they are easier targets. According to a 2024 survey, over 50% of small businesses reported a cyber attack in the past 12 months. Hull businesses are no exception either, they are just as likely to be targeted by phishing attacks and data breaches as any London-based business.

2. It helps to build trust

Customers want to know that their data is safe. By having a Cyber Essentials-accredited IT team like Reality Solutions looking after your systems, you give them that extra peace of mind. If you are regularly handling personal data, showing that you are taking precautions can help boost trust.

3. Some contracts require a Cyber Essentials-accredited business

If you want to work with government departments or public-sector organisations, you may have to prove that you are Cyber Essentials accredited, or at least have a team working with your business that has the accreditation.

What Threats Can We Help You Avoid?

Cyber Essentials is all about defending your business against the most common, and dangerous threats:

• Phishing attacks – where staff are tricked into clicking malicious links or revealing login details.
• Ransomware – where you are locked out of your internal systems and held hostage, payments are usually demanded.
• Malware – where your devices are infected and data is silently stolen.
• Password attacks – where stolen or guessed credentials are used to break into accounts.
• Outdated software – where weaknesses in unpatched computer systems are exploited.

How Reality Solutions Can Help

As a Cyber Essentials-accredited IT partner, we work with businesses of all sizes across Hull and East Yorkshire, helping to keep them secure and safe from cyber attacks. Why not get in touch with our team of experts today for more information.

​​*This article contains general information in order to assist all of our customers and is meant for guidance only – there are no guarantees that the information we provide will be suitable for your particular needs. If you require specific assistance, we recommend that you seek professional guidance on your individual circumstances. Reality Solutions are in no way responsible for any loss or damage arising from any information contained within our articles.