UK Government launches new National Cyber Strategy

The UK Government has launched its new National Cyber Strategy which calls for a “whole of society” approach to expand and enhance cyber skills to everyone, promote the UK as a global leader in cyber and build resilience in the face of growing threats. The report also highlights that it is by reducing cyber risks that UK businesses will be able to maximise the economic benefits of digital technology.

In the 107-page National Cyber Strategy 2022, the Government announces several new and enhanced schemes for children and adults to develop the UK’s domestic cyber security industry and workforce. For example, the Government is increasing investment in the National Cyber Force and creating a new cyber explorers’ online training platform. There is funding to support 107 businesses. Most of these are outside of London and the Southeast, and 45% of them are led by women and 52% have founders from BAME groups.

A new National Cyber Advisory Board is being created which will bring together senior figures from the private sector to advise and the Government.

The priorities set out in the strategy are part of five pillars that are expected to be implemented by 2025:

• Strengthening the UK cyber ecosystem
• Building a resilient and prosperous digital UK
• Taking the lead in the technologies vital to cyber power
• Advancing UK global leadership and influence for a more secure, prosperous and open international order
• Detecting, disrupting, and deterring adversaries to enhance UK security in and through cyber space

“CREST welcomes the new National Cyber Security Strategy and the clear vision it sets out,” said Rowland Johnson, President of CREST.

“All of us have a part to play to help the fight against cybercrime and it is essential that the UK cyber security industry and Government continues to innovate, adapt and work in partnership with one another. It is only through the public and the private sectors working together in harmony can we bring real change to the ecosystem.

“Harnessing the skills and talent of all of the UK’s population is essential and it is good to see that the strategy sets out measures to ensure all of society can play a part in cyber security”