As the cyber landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, more companies are failing to defend themselves from cyber adversaries.
That’s why a Carmarthenshire-based security engineer has stepped up to help companies and charities raise their cyber defences by launching a security service.
Martin Van Tongerlo launched Web Wizardry and Cyber Sentinels in January 2024 with the support of Business Wales. Born and raised in the Netherlands, Martin graduated with a diploma in IT vocational education from Summa College, in Eindhoven, in 2016.
Martin has since developed specialist skills in cloud application and network security, and is currently completing certifications to become a Practical Network Penetration Teste (PNPT) and Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP).
Since launching his business, Martin has been working with businesses and charities to strengthen their security systems. Mimicking the actions of a true hacker, Martin taps into a client’s security systems to perform penetration tests – known as ‘pen tests’ - that identify the risks and vulnerabilities within IT infrastructure and security software.
Once the pen test is complete and areas of vulnerability are identified, Martin provides a detailed report to the client outlining the weaknesses, potential past exploitation of security systems and the likelihood of a hack in the future. Martin then helps organisations to strengthen their cyber security system by offering compliance and regulatory services including the implementation of frameworks like ISO27001 and ISMS.
Martin said:
Earlier this year, the UK Government announced that 75% of businesses, and almost 80% of high-income charities, have experienced some form of cyber-attack in the past year. It made me think, if these incredibly wealthy, high-profile businesses and charities aren’t budgeting for safeguarding systems and are under cyberattack, imagine how vulnerable small businesses and charities are. I needed to step in to help where I could.
After hearing this news, Martin felt inspired to launch his business to support small and medium companies and charities to prioritise cyber security by offering budget-friendly, effective cyber support.
In March 2023, he reached out to Business Wales for guidance in launching his business. The cyber specialist was put in contact with Business Wales Business Advisor, Graham Harvey, who helped Martin to develop a business plan and register his business.
Through Business Wales’ webinars and online workshops, signposted to him by Graham, Martin has developed key entrepreneurial skills in marketing, social media, and financing.
Martin said:
I’m a computer geek, not a businessman. I decided to launch my own business because I wanted to help other companies stay safe from cyber-attacks. In order to do so, I need to become the best possible entrepreneur I can, otherwise companies aren’t going to trust me.
Being such a big introvert, I don’t naturally have the characteristics expected of you as an entrepreneur. I don’t naturally reach out to people, but Graham really instilled confidence in me by constantly reminding me of the importance of my business, and why I chose to launch it.
With the ongoing support of Business Wales, Martin is now looking to recruit more apprentices to join him in helping Welsh businesses fortify their cyber security and hopes to work with more charities and businesses in the near future.
Business Advisor, Graham Harvey, said:
Martin reached out to Business Wales with a mission to help vulnerable businesses and charities, and his dedication to helping others has outweighed his introverted nature. It’s rewarding to see how he has taken my advice and guidance, alongside the skills he’s learnt in webinars and workshops, and used it to fuel his confidence. It’s been brilliant to see Martin’s growth of a company founded to protect others, and I look forward to supporting his venture further.
Business Wales is funded by the Welsh Government. For more information and support to help you overcome obstacles and develop your business further, and to speak to industry experts and advisors, contact Business Wales. Visit www.businesswales.gov.wales or call 03000 6 03000. Rydym yn croesawu galwadau’n Gymraeg - we welcome calls in Welsh.