Knowledge base
September 06, 2025
IT Security Check – Prevention is cheaper than cure
Did you know that half of Dutch SMEs do not have an up-to-date cybersecurity check? Many companies only realize after an incident that their security measures are outdated. And that’s risky: in the Netherlands, the data breach notification requirement applies, which requires organizations to report a data breach to the Personal Data Authority (AVG) within 72 hours.
So prevention really is cheaper than cure.
At ALTA-ICT B.V., we see daily how organizations struggle with security checks. Our ISO27001 certified Security Operations Center (SOC) helps companies reduce their risks by up to 80% within 3 months. Through proactive quarterly audits and 24/7 monitoring, we prevent surprises – and provide assurance.
In this article you will read why regular IT security checks are indispensable for Dutch companies, what frequency is most effective and how ALTA-ICT supports you in doing so.
What is an IT Security Check and why crucial?
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Definition of a security check: scan vulnerabilities, test compliance, raise awareness.
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Dutch context: AVG, NEN7510 (healthcare), BIO (government).
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Business impact: data breach = reputation damage + fines up to €20 million.
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Common misconception: “once a year is enough” – research shows that threats are constantly changing.
How often to test? Poll results & best practices
In our LinkedIn poll, professionals voted as follows:
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Every month: 40%
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Every quarter: 34%
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Every 6 months: 11%
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Once a year: 14%
Analysis: why monthly or quarterly checks are better for SMBs and IT managers.
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Monthly: ideal for critical sectors (financial, healthcare).
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Every quarter: best balance for SMEs, combines compliance with cost control.
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Annual: insufficient for AVG obligations.
Challenges for SMEs and how ALTA-ICT solves them
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Limited budget → free IT Security Scan as an entry point.
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Unfamiliarity with compliance → clear translation to action.
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Time constraints → 24/7 monitoring outsourced.
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Lack of in-house expertise → proactive guidance from certified specialists.
ROI of security checks
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Average risk reduction: 80% within 3 months.
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Case: Dutch SME prevents €50K damage through phishing detection.
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Cost savings: preventing downtime, penalties, repair costs.
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Long-term benefit: trust customers and partners.
The ALTA-ICT approach
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ISO27001 certified SOC.
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AVG compliance tailored to Dutch market.
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Quarterly audits + awareness trainings.
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Track record with SMEs, healthcare and government.
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Free IT Security Scan → scan.alta-ict.co.uk
FAQ
🔒 How often should I do a security check?
At least quarterly so that you are AVG compliant and stay up-to-date with new threats.
💰 What does a check cost?
The basic IT Security Scan is free at ALTA-ICT. For in-depth audits, the cost depends on size and sector.
⚖️ What happens when an AVG violation occurs?
Not reporting a data breach in a timely manner can result in fines of up to €20 million or 4% of your annual turnover.
🏢 Do I need an SOC as a small business?
Yes, because SMBs are also targets. Our ISO27001 certified SOC provides scalable, affordable protection.
🕵️ How does the free scan work?
Within 1 minute you get an overview of vulnerabilities and concrete areas for improvement for your IT environment.
Conclusion
Preventing a data breach is always cheaper than a cure. For Dutch companies, IT security checks are not a luxury, but a necessity. Regular testing – ideally quarterly – provides assurance, AVG compliance and protection of business continuity.
👉 Book your free IT Security Scan now and find out how ALTA-ICT makes your organization more secure: scan.alta-ict.co.uk
Reference
¹ https://www.linkedin.com/posts/altaict_avg-altaict-cybersecurity-activity-7361432403682205696-IXJ4
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