CLAS, the CESG Listed Advisors Scheme, provides a pool of private sector consultants approved by CESG to provide Information Assurance (IA) advice to government departments and other organisations who provide vital services for the United Kingdom.
From small beginnings over a decade ago, CLAS is now a network of nearly 700 high quality advisors approved by CESG. It is a partnership that links the unique IA knowledge of CESG with the expertise and resources of the private sector.
CESG recognises that there is a growing public sector demand for well informed IA advice and guidance. This demand comes from an increasing awareness of the threats to information systems and of the high expectations of the public that data is appropriately protected. Particular factors driving demand are:
- The increasing sophistication of cyber attack
- Greater use of on-line public services
- Wider use of shared services and the consequent need for compliance with codes of connection.
New CLAS
CLAS changed in 2012 to ensure it continues to meet the needs of its clients. Many public sector organisations need IA consultants with specific IA expertise. CLAS is now designed to help clients choose CLAS members with the expertise that best meets their needs. See Changes to CLAS