Cyber Essentials Plus Accreditation

Our Commitment to Protecting Client Data

Tax Advisory Partnership (TAP) is proud to announce that we have been awarded the Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation — the highest level of certification within the UK Government-backed Cyber Essentials framework. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the sensitive information entrusted to us by our clients.

Cyber Essentials Plus provides independent assurance that our cyber-security controls are robust, effective, and resilient against common cyber-attack methods. For our clients, it offers meaningful peace of mind: clear, verified evidence that data protection sits at the heart of everything we do. 

What Cyber Essentials Plus Means

Cyber Essentials Plus goes beyond the standard self-assessed certification by requiring a rigorous, hands-on technical audit carried out by an accredited external assessor. This independent testing confirms that:

· Our systems and devices are protected against prevalent cyber threats

· Our security configurations — such as user access, device hardening, and software control — meet strict national standards

· Our update, patching, and software-management processes are consistently applied

· Our team is trained, security-aware, and well-supported in following best practice

The certification demonstrates not only that our policies are comprehensive, but that they work in real-world conditions.

How We Achieved Cyber Essentials Plus

• Strengthened Core Controls

In preparation for the assessment, we ensured that all devices, applications, and security controls met or exceeded Cyber Essentials requirements. This included tightening system configurations, ensuring timely updates, and reinforcing internal security policies across our remote-working environment.

• Independent Technical Audit

An accredited assessor performed detailed testing of our cyber-security measures, including:

· Device configuration and security hardening

· Patch and update management

· Firewall and boundary protection

· Malware defence and threat mitigation

· Access controls and authentication practices

The audit also included remote device testing and interviewing a random sample of team members to verify that our team understand and adhere to cyber-security best practice.

Ongoing Training and Awareness

Cyber Essentials Plus is not a one-off exercise. It forms part of our long-term commitment to maintaining strong cyber hygiene. Our staff participate in ongoing cyber-awareness training covering phishing risks, password security, safe file-sharing, and emerging threats such as AI-enhanced scams and deepfakes.

Why This Matters

Earning Cyber Essentials Plus sends a clear message to our clients, partners, and regulators:

· Your data is protected by independently verified security controls

· We take a proactive, responsible approach to cyber risk

· We continually invest in safeguarding the information you share with us

In an environment where data security is more important than ever, this accreditation reinforces the trust placed in us and our dedication to operating with professionalism, diligence, and resilience.