Information security for SMEs

Larger organisations are investing more and more in information security. As a result, cybercriminals are shifting their attention to an easier target: SMEs. Through an SME's network, attackers can easily gain access to customers and suppliers. Yet, according to research by Statistic Netherlands (CBS), only 29% of SMEs in the Netherlands conduct a risk analysis and just 9% provide mandatory security training tot employees.

Base27 helps SMEs implement information security in a structural and manageable way. With a single, clear system, you proactively manage risks, document policies and responsibilities and keep your processes demonstrably in order.

The challenges of information security for SMEs

Many SMEs recognize the importance of information security but fail to get around to it in practice. Budgets are limited, expertise is lacking and the organization has no dedicated IT staff. The result: policies end up buried in some forgotten Word document, risks are tracked in a messy spreadsheet and responsibilities are never formally documented anywhere.

Moreover, organizations often underestimate the fact that most data breaches are not caused by external attacks, but by employees within the company itself. A weak password, an email sent to the wrong person or an unsecured laptop is all it takes. Awareness, strong passwords and clear protocols are therefore just as important as technical measures.

In addition, laws and regulations are constantly changing. The GDPR imposes strict requirements regarding the handling of personal data, and frameworks such as ISO 27001 are regularly revised. If these changes are not actively implemented, you risk becoming noncompliant without even realizing it.

ISO 27001 as a starting point for SMEs

A good starting point for setting up information security is obtaining an ISO 27001 certification. This standard describes the process for getting, and keeping, your organization's information security in order. Additionally, ISO 27001 helps you comply with the most important laws and regulations around information security, including the GDPR.

A good approach starts with answering three questions:

What is the value of our information? - Consider what information is managed or processed within your organization and the value you assign to the availability, integrity and confidentiality of that information.
What risks does this involve? - Review at least once a year which risks you face. Are there significant risks? Take appropriate measures so that the remaining risk is acceptable. Do the same whenever there are (major) changes within your organization or systems.
Do our employees understand the value and te risks? - Ensure your employees are aware of the value of your information and the associated risks. Make them conscious of the responsibilities they have in their daily work.

Dashboards &
Reports

Comprehensive reports giving you insight into the status of your information security at all times;
Dashboards for quick and easy insight into the status of your information security;
- Insight by department, or across the board;
- Filters and sorting;
- Exports to Microsoft Excel or Word;
- Analysis in pivot tables.

Planning

See at a glance which information security maintenance tasks need to be performed throughout the year and what the status is;
Easily assign tasks and monitor progress;
The plan can be flexibly expanded and repeated annually.

Processes & KPIs

Establish overview of processes and related information systems;
Set and manage critical success factors and KPIs (Key Performance Indicators);
Compliance with standards is automatically made transparent.

Single Sign-on

Base27 is excellent for integrating within your organisation, for example by using SAML, to allow your employees to access the application without logging in again;
REST interface to link data from other sources. Through this capability, incidents from for example your ITSM can be read in or updates sent.

Easy and useful solution for managing our ISMS

Dave Kerstens

DUVAK

Customisation options, patience in guidance, talent to make the impossible possible

Karin van der Han

Stichting ZiZ

Clear all-in-one package

Frank Schonewille

Vcare

The presence of a complete structure and templates helps enormously with the certification

Marcel Kruithof

arQive

No-nonsense and clear solution

Jacco Rens

Juriblox

Support for the complete cycle of the ISMS

Marc Kuiken

Cloudseven

Automatically up to date with the latest versions of ISO 27001 and GDPR.

One platform for risk management, policies, controls and compliance.

Time savings through structured workflows and pre-filled policy framework.

100% European hosting, fully in line with GDPR requirements.

Support in obtaining an ISO 27001 certification.

ISMS for SMEs

Base27 monitors and manages your processes from one central place. It serves as both an information security management system (ISMS) and a privacy management system (PMS), giving you a firm grip on the many complex aspects of information security and privacy protection.

From policy development and communication to risk analysis, controls and asset registration, Base27 covers it all.

Try Base27 free for 30 days and discover how information security can finally become clear and organized.

Establishment and communication of policy

Description of processes and procedures

Protection of personal data

Conducting risk assessments and treatment plan

Managing suppliers and partners

Registration of assets

Incident registration and handling

Maintaining calamity plans

Planning improvement activities and internal audits

Monitoring and reporting

Frequently asked questions

What is information security and why is it important for SMEs?
Information security is about protecting information against unauthorised access, data breaches and misuse. This is becoming increasingly important for SMEs, as cybercriminals are targeting smaller businesses more and more often. A data breach or cyberattack can lead to reputational damage, fines and loss of customer trust.

How do I get started with information security?
Start by mapping out what information you manage, how valuable it is, and what risks you face. From there, you can draw up a policy and assign responsibilities. Base27 helps you with this through pre filled structures.

Is ISO 27001 certification mandatory for SMEs?
No, but it is a valuable investment. It shows customers, partners and regulators that your information security is demonstrably in order, which can make the difference when winning new business.

What is the difference between an ISMS and regular security software?
Regular security software, such as antivirus programs, protects your system technically from external threats. An ISMS goes further: it brings policy, risk analysis, measures and responsibilities together in one system. This means you not only work more securely, but can also demonstrate that your information security is structurally in order.

Can I get support with implementation?
Yes, implementing an ISMS follows a fixed approach: from establishing your information security policy and carrying out a risk analysis, to raising awareness among employees and preparing for an external audit. Base27 guides you through this process with a pre filled policy framework, structured workflows and clear steps, so you always know where you stand and what still needs to be done.

What are the consequences of a data breach?
Under the GDPR, you are required to report a data breach to the Dutch Data Protection Authority. Failing to do so risks a fine. A data breach can also lead to reputational damage, loss of customers and liability claims. For SMEs in particular, which often have smaller financial buffers, prevention is better than cure.

Information Security for SMEs: prevent your business from becoming the next target

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The challenges of information security for SMEs

ISO 27001 as a starting point for SMEs

Getting ISO 27001 certified in 10 steps?