Posts by Chris Smith
CSC2 bags Cyber Blog of the Year at the Real Cyber Awards 2024
I am beyond thrilled to share that CSC2 has won Cyber Blog of the Year at the recent Real Cyber Awards 2024! Organised by Consultant Like Us, This recognition means the world to us as we strive to make a meaningful impact in the cybersecurity community. Our Journey to ‘Best Blogger’ At CSC2, we’re dedicated…
Read MoreNavigating the Double-Edged Sword: Social Media & Mental Health
In the digital age, social media has woven itself into the fabric of our daily lives, influencing how we communicate, share, and perceive the world around us. While it undoubtedly offers opportunities for connection and self-expression, the relationship between social media and mental health is complex, presenting both potential benefits and challenges. The Positive Side:…
Read MoreThe Indispensable Role of Business Continuity Planning
In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, unforeseen disruptions can strike at any moment. Whether it’s a natural disaster, cyberattack, or economic downturn, the impact on businesses can be devastating. To safeguard their operations and mitigate risks, organizations must prioritize Business Continuity Planning (BCP). What is Business Continuity Planning? BCP is a strategic process that outlines…
Read MoreCSC2 Claims Freelancer of the Year at the Wigan Business Awards!
A Week of Celebration Last week, CSC2 were buzzing with excitement as we celebrated our recent win at the Wigan Business Awards. We were honoured to be named Freelancer of the Year! This award is a testament to our team’s dedication, hard work, and commitment to delivering exceptional services to our clients. It’s a recognition…
Read MoreTime is ticking: Less Than a Year to Transition to ISO 27001:2022!
The clock is ticking! With the validity of ISO 27001:2013 ending on October 31st, 2025, organisations certified under the 2013 version need to take action now to transition to ISO 27001:2022. Don’t get caught flat-footed – ensure your information security management system (ISMS) is up to date and ready for the audit. New Version The…
Read MoreCommon Nonconformities During a Management System Audit
ISO management system (https://www.iso.org/home.html) audits are essential for ensuring that organisations comply with international standards. However, even the most prepared companies can encounter nonconformities. Here are some of the most common issues we identify during these audits: Documentation Issues One of the most frequent nonconformities is inadequate or outdated documentation. This includes missing procedures, incomplete…
Read MoreUnderstanding the UK Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT)
I was recently asked about the UK Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT) so I thought I would shed some light on it. In today’s digital age, safeguarding sensitive information is paramount, especially in the healthcare sector. The DSPT is a critical tool designed to ensure that organisations handling NHS patient data adhere to stringent…
Read MoreISO Audits: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Let’s talk about ISO audits. Fun, right? Okay, maybe not quite as exhilarating as a roller coaster, but definitely as important for your business’s health. The Bad Audit: A Horror Story Imagine an ISO audit as a visit from your overly critical aunt. You know the one – she arrives unannounced, armed with a magnifying…
Read MoreCracking the Code: A History of Cryptography and Its Modern Uses
From ancient pharaohs to the digital age, cryptography has played a vital role in safeguarding secrets and securing communication. This fascinating field, where math meets mystery, has evolved over millennia to keep pace with ever-changing threats. So, let’s embark on a journey through time and explore cryptography’s history and modern uses! Ancient Whispers: The Early…
Read MoreThe Solo Director Rollercoaster: Mental Health, Hustle, and (Hopefully) Happiness
Alright, let’s get real. Being a solo company director is a wild ride. One minute you’re soaring with a new client win, the next you’re plummeting into a pit of spreadsheet despair (seriously, why are there so many formulas?). It’s exhilarating, terrifying, and everything in between. Here’s the thing: I wouldn’t trade it for the…
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