Global Talks Highlight The Crucial Role Of Cybersecurity
The UK is hosting three days of talks with other leading nations to discuss measures to tackle the growing threats to cyber security. In a press release, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology explains that the global coalition will explore new ways to boost cyber security and look to enhance cyber skills training.
The growing threat of cyber attacks
Cyber attacks are becoming more frequent for small to medium (SMEs) sized businesses in the UK, and they can lead to significant disruption and downtime. This affects productivity and also damages client’s trust and the reputation of the business. Furthermore, attacks can lead to legal penalties for the business if General Data Protection Regulations are breached.
The international coalition highlights just how seriously governments and IT engineers are taking the rising threat of cybercrime. The press release explains that almost half of British businesses do not have the level of skills to protect themselves against cyber crime.
Our Leeds-based cyber security services can help SMEs to manage day to day risks and ensure that all of your software, firewalls and anti-malware protection is up to date and protected with agreed protocols. We also provide 24/7 helpdesk support, backed up by on-site visits if required.
What are the aims and objectives of the global cyber-security convention?
The talks are taking place to explore how global cyber security workforces can be strengthened, with the development of new professional standards and cyber skills training.
Experts from EU member states, Japan, Canada, and the UK will be joined by representatives from the World Economic Forum and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
A new report will be commissioned and the key areas of focus will be discussed during the three days of talks. The recommendations in the report are scheduled to be published by the end of the year.
Cyber Security Minister Feryal Clark said: “The UK needs a significant improvement in its cyber defences after the previous government failed to strengthen our cyber laws – we’re fixing that.”
“Later this year, we’ll bring forward new measures to better protect the nation from cyber-crime and our new regional skills programme will support the next generation of cyber talent and innovators.”
“But this is a shared challenge, which is why we’re bringing together global allies to discuss and agree steps to keep us safe online, improve cyber skills and protect our economy and public services.”
Special enhanced status for data centres
The government has also announced that data centres will be designated Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) and will be afforded the same status as energy and water systems.
Here at Bee IT Solutions, we have our own data centre that is supported by an independent power supply, bolstered against physical damage, and protected round the clock with the most stringent cyber security measures. If you choose to store your critical data with us, you will also have the flexibility to scale up or down your capacity as your needs change.
Data centres house multiple computer servers, storage systems, and networking equipment to ensure data is safe from physical and cyber threats, and accessible to businesses as required at all times. It gives you peace of mind that in the event of a cyber breach or other disaster, you can maintain business continuity and recover quickly and efficiently.
NCSC uncovers Russian digital sabotage attempt
The National Cyber Security Centre reports that it has worked with allies to disrupt an attempt by Russian forces to sabotage computer networks and carry out espionage. This illustrates how cyber security is not just a matter of complying with data protection regulations; cybercrime is now an act of warfare.
Paul Chichester, NCSC Director of Operations, said: “The exposure of Unit 29155 as a capable cyber actor illustrates the importance that Russian military intelligence places on using cyberspace to pursue its illegal war in Ukraine and other state priorities.”
“The UK, alongside our partners, is committed to calling out Russian malicious cyber activity and will continue to do so. The NCSC strongly encourages organisations to follow the mitigation advice and guidance included in the advisory to help defend their networks.”
The UK and its allies found that malicious actors were targeting governments around the world, and also uncovered specific threats to Ukrainian victim organisations. UK businesses are urged to step up their security measures in the wake of the attacks.
