SMS Research is an established market research agency based in Newcastle upon Tyne, delivering both qualitative and quantitative insight services to clients across the UK.
Working with sensitive consumer and research data, the organisation operates in a data-driven environment where security, reliability, and system availability are critical.
Background
Advantex has partnered with SMS Research since 2017, supporting the development and evolution of its IT environment. As the organisation increased its reliance on digital platforms and cloud services, the focus expanded to strengthening cyber security and implementing a more structured, best practice-led approach.
This included aligning systems, controls, and user access with recognised standards including key principles outlined within the Cyber Essentials framework, ensuring the business could operate securely and efficiently.
The Challenge
As SMS Research expanded and its reliance on digital systems increased, the organisation needed to strengthen its cyber security posture to protect sensitive research and participant data.
Handling large volumes of consumer data, the business faced increasing expectations from clients and partners to demonstrate that appropriate security controls were in place, alongside the need to reduce exposure to common cyber threats such as phishing, malware, and credential compromise.
To support this, SMS Research required:
- A more structured and consistently managed IT environment
- Stronger protection against email and web-based threats
- Improved control over user access and authentication
- Secure, reliable access to systems for a distributed workforce
- Greater visibility and proactive management of IT systems
- Alignment with recognised best practice, including principles outlined within Cyber Essentials
The Solution
Advantex implemented a comprehensive Managed IT Service underpinned by a layered cyber security framework, aligned to the best practice and core control areas outlined within Cyber Essentials:
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to strengthen user authentication and reduce the risk of unauthorised access
- Secure configuration and endpoint controls, ensuring systems were standardised and hardened against threats
- Proactive patch management, keeping systems up to date and protected against known vulnerabilities
- DNS-layer protection (Cisco Umbrella) to block malicious domains and prevent web-based attacks
- Network and perimeter security, supported by secure connectivity and hosted firewall solutions
Alongside these controls, Microsoft 365 was configured to support secure collaboration and data handling, while all systems are continuously monitored and managed to ensure ongoing alignment with best practice.
Benefits
- Reduced risk of data exposure through improved protection against phishing, malware, and credential-based attacks
- Stronger control over user access and authentication across the organisation
- Improved consistency and security across all devices and systems
- Secure and reliable access to data for both office-based and remote staff
- Increased confidence from clients and stakeholders in how data is protected
- Alignment with recognised cyber security best practice, supporting Cyber Essentials readiness
Conclusion
The long-term partnership between Advantex and SMS Research demonstrates how a Managed Service approach can embed cyber security into day-to-day operations, particularly for organisations handling sensitive data across distributed environments. By aligning systems, controls, and processes with recognised best practice, Advantex has supported SMS Research in strengthening its security posture and preparing for future certification.
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