F12.net is one of the first organizations in Canada awarded the new Cyber Essentials Plus certification. In addition, F12’s programs help other businesses and charities achieve certification.
Cyber Essentials Canada Certification
Cyber Essentials Canada is the only government-backed, government-owned, cybersecurity certification that is available in Canada. It is modelled after Cyber Essentials from the UK and is a cost-effective annual certification for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs).
Cyber risk is a vital concern for businesses and charities. Customers, investors, insurers, and regulators are also looking for assurance that necessary systems are in place to protect their interests, including their personal information. The Cyber Essentials Canada framework is built upon “5 Key Controls” deemed essential in mitigating over 80% of common internet threats. The five essential controls are:
- Boundaries Firewalls & Internet Gateways
- Access Control
- Malware
- Patch Management
- Secure Configuration
Cyber Essentials Canada aligns organizations to:
- 100% of the UK’s Cyber Essentials
- 43% of the United States’ NIST 800-171
- Due diligence under EU’s GDPR
PIPEDA Requirements
As of November 1, 2018, organizations subject to The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) are required to:
- Report to the Privacy Commissioner of Canada breaches of security safeguards involving personal information that pose a real risk of significant harm to individuals
- Notify affected individuals about those breaches, and
- Keep records of all breaches.
F12.net as a Path to Certification
The F12 Plus, F12 Select, and F12 Secure programs already include the systems needed for organizations to achieve Cyber Essentials Canada certification. F12 developed a short, fixed-cost engagement to help clients on these programs form the internal policies and complete the application necessary for certification.
About Cyber Essentials Canada
Cyber Essentials Canada is operated by a government agency, dedicated to securing Canada’s digital economy.
About F12.net
F12.net is a leading provider of comprehensive IT programs designed to minimize conversations about networks and computers and maximize focus on business objectives. F12’s suite of IT solutions improves productivity, reduces risk, and rationalizes IT expenses.