What Is the Cyber Essentials Mark?
The Cyber Essentials Mark is a certification scheme administered by the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA). Updated in 2025 to align with Singapore Standard SS 712, it provides independent verification that your organisation has implemented baseline cybersecurity controls to defend against the most common cyber threats — phishing, ransomware, credential theft, and malware delivery.
The 5 Domains of Cyber Essentials (SS 712)
Certification assesses your organisation across five control domains:
- 1. Assets — Maintain an accurate, up-to-date inventory of all hardware and software in your organisation
- 2. Secure Configuration — All systems are configured securely: default passwords changed, unnecessary services disabled, firewall rules hardened
- 3. Software Updates — Critical security patches applied within 14 days of release; end-of-life software removed or isolated
- 4. Access Control — Multi-factor authentication (MFA) enforced for remote access and privileged accounts; principle of least privilege applied
- 5. Malware Protection — Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) deployed on all devices; traditional antivirus alone is insufficient for certification
Certification Process
- Readiness Assessment — Gap analysis against all 5 domains; identify and prioritise remediation items
- Gap Remediation — Implement required controls (MFA rollout, EDR deployment, patch automation, firewall hardening)
- Third-Party Assessment — CSA-approved assessor reviews your controls and documentation
- Certification & Mark — CSA issues the Cyber Essentials Mark, valid for 12 months and displayable on your website and marketing materials
Cost and Timeline
Total cost for Cyber Essentials certification in Singapore typically ranges from S$1,500 to S$3,000, covering the gap assessment, remediation support, and third-party assessment fee. CSA co-funding may be available to offset this investment.
With MicroLogic's end-to-end support, most SMEs achieve certification in 4–8 weeks.
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