Build It International Achieves Cyber Essentials Certification Across UK and Zambia
Build It International Achieves Cyber Essentials Certification.
We’re proud to announce that Build It International is now Cyber Essentials certified, marking a significant milestone in strengthening their cyber security across both the UK and Zambia.
For a charity operating internationally with 40 users across two geographical locations, this was no small task. Achieving Cyber Essentials required careful coordination, robust systems, and a clear strategy to ensure consistent security standards across borders.
What Is Cyber Essentials?
Cyber Essentials is a UK Government backed certification scheme designed to help organisations protect themselves against the most common cyber threats. It focuses on five key security controls:
Firewalls
Secure configuration
User access control
Malware protection
Security update management
By meeting these standards, organisations demonstrate that they have essential protections in place to defend against the vast majority of common cyber attacks.
For charities like Build It International, cyber security is about more than compliance. It is about protecting sensitive data, safeguarding donor trust, and ensuring operational continuity across international teams.
The Challenge: Two Countries, One Security Standard
Build It International operates across both the UK and Zambia, with a combined team of 40 users. Aligning devices, user access, policies, and security controls across two countries presented a unique challenge.
Different locations, varying infrastructure, and multiple users meant that achieving certification required a structured, carefully managed approach. Every device and account had to meet the required standards, and security controls needed to be implemented consistently across both territories.
Through close collaboration and detailed auditing, the organisation successfully met all requirements, achieving certification without compromising day to day operations.
Why This Matters
Cyber threats continue to grow in scale and sophistication. For charities working internationally, the risk surface is often broader, making strong foundational security even more important.
By achieving Cyber Essentials certification, Build It International has:
Strengthened protection against common cyber attacks
Demonstrated commitment to safeguarding data
Increased confidence for donors and stakeholders
Reduced the risk of operational disruption
This certification reflects a proactive approach to cyber security and responsible governance.
Looking to Achieve Cyber Essentials?
If your organisation is considering certification, learn more about the process and how it can strengthen your cyber resilience here
You can also download our Free Cyber Security Checklist to help you get cyber essentials ready!
Cyber Essentials is not just a badge. It is a practical framework that helps organisations build strong foundations for secure, sustainable operations.
Congratulations again to Build It International on this significant achievement!
CLEA works with small UK charities and nonprofits to improve their digital resilience through IT support including Cyber Essentials, Sales Force and Microsoft 365.
