HowyGuardHow do I check the answer to a question on my cyber insurance form?
Don't guess. Check the setting yourself using the table below, or send the exact question to your IT provider in writing and ask for a dated screenshot. If the true answer is partly, fix the gap first or tell your broker exactly what's in place. Your answers need to be true when you sign.
Checking an answer means looking at the actual setting, not going from memory.
Where to check each setting yourself
You need an admin sign-in. If a word on the form is new to you, the glossary explains it.
| If the question is about | Where to look |
|---|---|
| MFA on Google Workspace email | Admin console, Security, Authentication, 2-Step Verification. Then Directory, Users, with the enrolment column added. Full steps |
| MFA on Microsoft 365 email | Entra admin center, Properties, Manage security defaults. Full steps |
| Updates | Windows Update on each PC, or Software Update on each Mac. Full steps |
| Antivirus | Windows Security, Virus & threat protection. Full steps |
| Encryption | Device encryption or BitLocker on Windows, FileVault on a Mac. Full steps |
| Backups | File History or Time Machine, for the drive and last backup date. Full steps |
| DMARC | The free email check on HowyGuard. Full steps |
Check every computer and every account the question covers, not just your own.
How to ask your IT provider
- Copy the exact question from the form, word for word.
- Send it in writing and ask for a yes or no, plus a dated screenshot of the setting.
- If they say "mostly" or "for most people", ask which accounts or computers are missing. That's your gap.
- File their answer in your proof folder.
If the true answer is "partly"
- Fix the gap now if you can, using the guide for that item, then answer yes.
- If your form offers "sometimes", "partly" or a box to describe it, use that.
- If it only offers yes or no, ask your broker how they want a partial answer shown.
Common questions
Can my IT provider fill in the form for me?
They can gather the answers. The business signs and owns them, so read each one carefully and check it's true.
A question doesn't apply to my business. What do I do?
Use an N/A box if there is one. If not, write a note or tell your broker, instead of picking yes or no.
Do old staff accounts count?
If they can still sign in, yes. Close them, and they're out of the question.