Cyber security in short supply for Britain’s biggest businesses

The UK government is urging British businesses to shore up their cyber security in response to a string high profile online attacks.

New research, conducted by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, has revealed that one in ten FTSE 350 companies operate without an appropriate response to cyber threats, with less than a third of directors briefed on the potential risks to their business.

Minister for Digital Matt Hancock had this to say: “We have world leading businesses and a thriving charity sector but recent cyber attacks have shown the devastating effects of not getting our approach to cyber security right.

“These new reports show we have a long way to go until all our organisations are adopting best practice and I urge all senior executives to work with the National Cyber Security Centre and take up the Government’s advice and training.”

It’s not all bad news however. According to the government’s yearly ‘Cyber Health Check’, 53% of businesses are in the process of upping their online security measures (up from 33% in 2016), while 57% have a clearer understanding of the threats posed (up from 49%).

Cyber security is under intense scrutiny at the moment, thanks in part to the much publicised WannaCry ransomware attack in May. For those concerned, the government is offering free advice and online guidance to all organisations through its five year National Cyber Security Strategy.

Alex Dewdney, Director for Engagement at the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), added: “The NCSC is committed to making the UK the safest place in the world to live and do business online.

“We know that we can’t do this alone – everyone has a part to play. That’s why we’re committed to providing organisations with expert advice through our website and direct engagement. We also urge organisations to follow the guidance in the Government’s Cyber Essentials scheme.”

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