In an era when cybercrimes are becoming increasingly sophisticated, ensuring the safety and security of your data isn’t just a priority—it’s a necessity. In the last year, 50% of UK businesses have experienced some form of cyber security breach or attack. For utilities and telecom professionals, this has emphasised the importance of securing their customer data and working with providers who adhere to the highest international standards.
The Growing Threat of Cyber Attacks in Utilities
Cyberattacks are no longer rare occurrences but professional enterprises, posing daily threats that require robust defences. The utilities and telecom industries form important parts of the UK’s infrastructure, making them prime targets for these cyber criminals. The International Energy Agency has warned about the increasing cyber threats to energy infrastructure across Europe. Leading insurer, Chaucer, recently shared that sensitive data “belonging to 140,000 individuals was compromised last year due to data breaches at utility companies” and that Ofcom, the telecoms and broadcast regulator, also reported an average of “30,000 cyber intrusion attempts weekly” last year. These numbers highlight the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures in the utilities sector.
Why Compliance Matters to Service Providers
Businesses such as Utilities and Telecoms providers can leverage key advantages through an outsourcer partnership. This includes the expertise and resources of the outsourcer via their dedicated teams of cybersecurity experts who continuously monitor and update their systems to stay ahead of emerging threats. This allows businesses in these sectors to focus on their core operations while having peace of mind, knowing that their data is safe and secure.
For outsourcers, it is essential to demonstrate best practices and a competent data protection and security strategy. The Contact Centre Management Association’s (CCMA) recent report notes the importance of maintaining and increasing compliance with outsourcers. They share that outsourcing providers have increased the adoption of Cyber Essentials, demonstrating their readiness to meet the requirements of their clients by adhering to rigorous standards. However, it goes beyond Cyber Essentials; it’s important to focus on all areas of compliance to ensure clear protocols are in place across an organisation that operates with vast pools of data internationally. With a partnership approach, a reputable outsourcer will proactively address potential threats, ensuring the safety of all their clients’ data.
Our Commitment to Cyber Security
DDC’s Compliance and IT teams are committed to upholding the highest standards in compliance and regulation. Our proactive strategy ensures that we continue to provide an environment of trust, security and excellence for our clients, helping them mitigate risk and ensure smooth collaboration in our operations.
We implement rigorous security protocols that go above and beyond regulatory requirements to protect our data and that of our clients. This has included our participation in annual external audits and being ISO 27001:2022 certified, upholding the international standard for information security management systems. This certification is bolstered by our further certifications in ISO 31000:2018 Risk Management and ISO 22301:2019 Business Continuity, exemplifying our expertise in effective risk mitigations and our services’ resilience during disruptions. Lastly, we are Cyber Essentials certified, helping us guard against cyber threats and demonstrating our commitment to cyber security.
Looking Ahead
In 2024, cyber threats are constantly evolving and ensuring the security of your data and operations is paramount. For utilities and telecom professionals, partnering with an outsourcing provider that adheres to the highest international standards is crucial. At DDC Outsourcing Solutions, we are committed to meeting and surpassing these standards. Leveraging our expertise and technology ensures our continuation of delivering excellence and enhancing the value of our services and partnerships.
Please see our credibility page here to learn more about our certifications and recent successful audits.
To learn more about our services, contact us here.
