SM Advice, which specialises in adviser-focused social media and engagement, has unveiled its first service outside marketing with a new proposition designed to help advisers achieve Cyber Essentials certification.
The service is targeted at sole traders and small advisory practices and is intended to simplify what is often seen as a complex and time-consuming process. SM Advice said the aim is to help advisers meet basic cyber security standards without the stress that can deter smaller firms from pursuing certification.
Cyber Essentials certification is increasingly expected across the advice sector as firms look to demonstrate that they are taking reasonable steps to protect client data. For businesses without dedicated IT resource, however, the requirements can feel daunting and are often pushed down the priority list.
Christopher Miles (pictured), managing director of SM Advice, said: “We work with advisers every day and hear the same frustrations time and again – cyber security is important, but it’s complex, time-consuming and often intimidating, especially for sole traders and small practices.
“This service is about making Cyber Essentials achievable without the jargon or overwhelm. We guide advisers through the process step by step, in plain English, so they can gain certification with confidence and without taking time away from their clients.”
SM Advice said the move reflects a broader ambition to support advisers with practical solutions that extend beyond marketing and online engagement.
Paul Gray, director of Hathaway Gray Ltd, who recently completed Cyber Essentials certification with support from SM Advice, said: “Cyber Essentials had been sitting on my to-do list for far too long. I knew the importance, but I genuinely dreaded the thought of starting it and just wanted to focus my time on my clients.
“SM Advice made the whole process straightforward. They took the time, stress and complexity out of it and ultimately undertook the process from the initial conversation to sharing the certification with me.”
SM Advice said its Cyber Essentials support is designed for advisers seeking reassurance and compliance without unnecessary complexity, reinforcing its adviser-first approach.
