October marks Cyber Security Awareness Month, a timely reminder that organisations of every size face increasingly complex cyber threats. We are delighted to announce that Cantata has successfully achieved Cyber Essentials Plus Certification, the independently tested level of certification within the UK Government-backed Cyber Essentials scheme.
Why Cyber Security Matters More Than Ever
Cyber-attacks continue to be one of the biggest operational risks facing organisations today. From phishing emails and ransomware to credential theft and data breaches, cyber incidents can disrupt operations, damage reputations and compromise sensitive information.
As trusted advisors delivering CRM consultancy, digital transformation, data migration, system integration and support services, information security is fundamental to how we work. Our clients rely on us to work with business-critical systems and sensitive data, making robust cyber security an essential part of our business.
What is Cyber Essentials Plus?
Independent Technical Verification
Cyber Essentials Plus builds on the standard Cyber Essentials certification by including independent technical verification of security controls. While Cyber Essentials is based on a verified self-assessment, Cyber Essentials Plus requires a qualified assessor to test those controls and confirm they are functioning as expected.
The Cyber Essentials scheme is backed by the UK Government's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and delivered through IASME-approved certification bodies.
The assessment focuses on the five Cyber Essentials technical controls:
Together, these controls help organisations protect against the most common cyber-attacks and internet-borne threats.
What Cyber Essentials Plus Means for Our Clients
For clients, Cyber Essentials Plus provides independent evidence that Cantata has implemented cyber security controls that have been verified through hands-on technical assessment, helping reduce risks associated with phishing, malware and compromised credentials.
What the Certification Covers
The certification validates several key technical controls, including:
Device and endpoint security
Rigorous standards across workstations and devices.
Multi-factor authentication
Defensive identity verification protocols.
Malware protection
Proactive defense against hostile code and scripts.
Access management
Strict administrative and user permission tiers.
Security update management
Systematic patching routines and vulnerability cycles.
Secure remote access arrangements
Encrypted conduits for hybrid and offsite workflows.
These controls form part of a broader information security programme that also includes governance, policies and staff awareness training.
Supporting Secure CRM and Digital Transformation Projects
Cyber security is particularly important for CRM and business applications, which often contain sensitive customer, member, supporter and stakeholder information. This is especially relevant for organisations modernising platforms such as Microsoft Dynamics 365, integrating business systems and migrating critical data.
Whether we are advising on CRM Strategy, delivering a new CRM Implementation, managing complex Data Migration, developing secure Web Portals or providing ongoing CRM Support, security considerations are embedded throughout our approach. We work with organisations to ensure security is considered alongside business objectives, user adoption, governance and long-term operational success.
Data Management Best Practices for CRM
Looking Ahead
Cyber Essentials Plus is not a one-off exercise. Cyber security requires continual attention, regular review and ongoing investment as technologies, business requirements and threats evolve.
Achieving Cyber Essentials Plus Certification reflects our commitment to continuously improving cyber security and gives clients confidence that their systems and data are in trusted hands.
As Cyber Security Awareness Month encourages organisations to review their security arrangements and strengthen their defences, we are proud to celebrate this important milestone.
Cyber Essentials Plus Certification demonstrates our commitment to maintaining independently verified cyber security controls and protecting the systems, information and services that our clients rely upon.