Cyber security in Devon – 6 reasons why being local still matters 

As cyber security rises up the agenda for businesses in Devon and the South West, here are six reasons why we believe having a relationship with an independent and qualified provider who is based in the region is so beneficial for clients. 

1) Despite the cloud and remote working, on-site assessments remain crucial (and are often mandatory)

The cloud might be increasingly important for many organisations and workforces more likely to work remotely (at least some of the time), but if you have physical locations then having cyber security professionals conduct on-site assessments is a crucial part of helping ensure you are secure. An on-site assessment means an independent review of your infrastructure to include people, process and technology  

For some important cyber security accreditations, on-site assessment  is mandatory. 

For example, if you take payment by card (credit card or debit card), you will need to be PCI DSS compliant (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard). Depending on the number of payments you take, you are likely to need to submit a Report on Compliance (RoC) as part of your annual PCI compliance validation. This means a PCI Council Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) will need to attend your premises. 

Securious is unique in having highly qualified and experienced PCI QSAs based at our Exeter office. Whilst we conduct PCI work across the country and internationally, we are able to provide a uniquely cost-effective and timely service to clients in Devon and the South West. 

2) As a Devon business looking for cyber security experts, you don’t want to pay the costs involved with out-of-town consultants

If you are based in Devon or the South West and need cyber security professionals on-site, the costs can quickly escalate if you need to use teams from out of the region. Because of the geography involved, travel costs, accommodation and subsistence can add a huge premium to any billable costs. 

At Securious, all our cyber security consultants are based in Devon and we never charge for travel to locations within the South West or require overnight accommodation. This means your funds go straight to where they are needed – paying for experts to be on-site addressing your cyber security issues. 

On top of these cost savings, we also offer an additional 5% discount off our fees for businesses based in Devon and the South West.

3) You need a cyber security partner who understands your business

Cyber security services and solutions need to fit your business. That, in turn, requires an understanding of your situation, your aspirations and your key challenges. 

Being local and integrated into the Devon business networks means we are much more likely to know you already and will be much better placed to get to know you better and keep in touch as you grow. 

This in turn means you will get more appropriate and tailored recommendations. 

4) With cyber security, speed of response can be critical – a Devon business needs a cyber security partner based locally

Cyber security will often require urgent attention. Should action be needed on-site, you need access to experts who can get to you promptly. 

Whilst we don’t drive around with flashing blue lights, knowing your cyber security partners are nearby should the worst happen will give you additional reassurance. It also means it is much easier to visit regularly to ensure everything is as it should be and to fully understand your business, especially as it grows. 

5) A cyber security partner who understands the Devon ecosystem will provide additional benefits

Cyber security doesn’t exist within a vacuum – it needs to integrate with your business and existing supply chain. Being based in Devon means we are much better able to coordinate with existing suppliers, especially external IT providers 

6) Building a cyber security community in Devon and the South West

Beyond our immediate mission to provide our clients with cyber security confidence, we are committed to doing all we can to raise the broader awareness of cyber security in Devon and the South West. 

We are passionate about building a thriving sector here and our aspiration is that one day soon, no ambitious cyber security professional will need to leave the region to find fulfilling work. By working with us, you will be contributing to this aspiration. 

You can read more about our pioneering work with organisations such as the SWCRC, SWCSC and Tech South West. 

If you are based in Devon and want to get to grips with your cyber security…

We’d love the chance to learn more about your situation and understand how we might be able to help. For an introductory chat, or if you have specific requirements, please contact us using the form below or call on 01392 247 110