Cyber insurance requirements: the controls insurers now demand

By Duane Epperly · Published July 6, 2026 · Updated July 6, 2026 · 1 min read

In 2026, cyber insurers commonly require multi-factor authentication, endpoint detection and response, monitored incident response, tested encrypted backups, and security awareness training before writing or renewing a small-business policy.

What do insurers actually check?

The renewal questionnaire has hardened into a de facto standard: multi-factor authentication (MFA) on email and remote access, endpoint detection and response (EDR), someone monitoring and responding to incidents, encrypted and tested backups, and documented staff training. Answer "no" to any of these and premiums climb — or coverage disappears.

How do you pass without building a security department?

The controls insurers demand are exactly what a managed security package provides. "The questionnaire stopped being paperwork years ago — insurers verify now," says Duane Epperly, founder of EDG.tech. EDG.tech Complete covers the technical controls — and the managed-IT foundation behind them — for $100 per user per month, and we complete the questionnaire with you, with evidence.

FAQ

Will better controls lower our premium?

Often, yes — carriers price to risk, and verified MFA plus monitored EDR moves you into a better band.

What happens if we answer inaccurately?

Claims get denied over misrepresented controls. Answer accurately; fix gaps first.

How fast can a small business become insurable?

The core technical controls typically deploy in days, not months, across a small environment.