Australian firm Dynamic Standards International (DSI) is expanding its cybersecurity standard, SMB1001, into international markets. This move addresses a growing global demand for accessible and practical cybersecurity solutions tailored for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs).
The SMB1001 standard, designed to be dynamic and updated annually, aims to simplify cybersecurity certification for SMBs, which often find existing global standards too complex and costly. The international certification for SMB1001 will commence on January 1, 2025.
Key Takeaways
- DSI, formerly Cyber Security Certification Australia, is launching its SMB1001 standard internationally.
- The standard is designed for SMBs, offering a practical and accessible approach to cybersecurity certification.
- Expansion targets include the Americas, Singapore, New Zealand, and the South Pacific.
- International certification begins January 1, 2025.
Addressing the SMB Cybersecurity Gap
Small and medium-sized businesses worldwide are facing increasing pressure from cyber threats. In Australia alone, these threats can cost businesses up to AUD $97,000 annually. Globally, cybercrime is projected to cost USD $10.5 trillion by 2025. Existing cybersecurity standards are often too complex, expensive, or slow to update for SMBs.
DSI’s "dynamic" standards, such as SMB1001, offer a step-by-step certification roadmap. This approach helps organisations build their cybersecurity maturity progressively, aligning with international frameworks without the burden of constantly tracking evolving requirements.
Global Expansion and Future Outlook
Professor Ryan Ko, Co-Founder of DSI, stated that the expansion into international markets reflects a strong global drive to build resilience against cybercrime in an accessible and trusted manner. DSI has also expanded its Standards and Certification Oversight Board to include industry and government leaders from the Americas and EMEA regions to support the development of its dynamic standards.
The SMB1001 standard, first launched in Australia in September 2023 and updated in September 2024, has already made a significant impact. Its international rollout aims to equip businesses globally to demonstrate their cybersecurity maturity, enabling them to operate more safely and securely as trusted third-party providers in global supply chains. DSI’s focus is on providing solutions that allow businesses to grow and pace their cyber maturity according to their specific contexts, safeguarding sensitive data and fostering confidence in the global economy.
Sources
- Australia’s Dynamic Standards Moves Into International Markets, Australian Cyber Security Magazine.
- Australian firm DSI expands global cyber standard SMB1001, SecurityBrief Australia.
