The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has released its Annual Review for 2024, highlighting a significant increase in cyber threats to the UK.
The review stresses the importance of Cyber Essentials in improving the UK’s cyber resilience. CEO of NCSC, Dr Richard Horne, said, “Research from insurers shows organisations are 92% less likely to make a claim on their cyber insurance if they have implemented security controls outlined by Cyber Essentials, a government programme which has evolved since its launch ten years ago but which remains just as relevant today.”
At Start Tech, we are cyber security experts, which means we can help you implement cyber essentials and help you secure cyber insurance. After all, we were one of the first IT providers in the UK to become a National Cyber Security Centre Assured Service Provider!
Key Findings in the Review
There has been a surge in severe cyber attacks. The NCSC managed 1,957 cyber incidents over the past year, with 430 requiring direct intervention. Notably, 89 incidents were classified as “highly significant,” including 12 at the highest severity level, which is a threefold increase from the previous year.
The report identifies Russia, China, and North Korea as primary actors in sophisticated cyber operations targeting the UK. These nations have engaged in activities ranging from espionage to disruptive attacks on critical infrastructure.
High-profile incidents, such as ransomware attacks on London hospitals and the British Library, show the vulnerability of essential services. The British Library’s recovery efforts consumed nearly half of its financial reserves, highlighting the severe consequences of cyber attacks.
Ransomware: A Persistent and Growing Threat
Ransomware remains one of UK organisations’ most immediate and disruptive cyber threats.
The NCSC’s report underscores the increasing sophistication of ransomware attacks, which have targeted critical infrastructure sectors, including healthcare and finance. Notably, a ransomware attack on Synnovis disrupted thousands of procedures across six NHS trusts, illustrating the severe impact such incidents can have on essential services.
The NCSC emphasises the importance of proactive measures to reduce ransomware risks. Organisations are urged to implement robust backup strategies, maintain up-to-date software patches, and foster a culture of cyber security awareness among employees. By adopting these practices, businesses can reduce their vulnerability to ransomware attacks and ensure continuity of operations.
Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Challenges
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming various sectors, offering both opportunities and challenges in cyber security. The NCSC’s review highlights that while AI can enhance defensive capabilities, it also presents new avenues for cyber threats. AI can be used to create more sophisticated phishing campaigns, automated attacks, and exploit vulnerabilities at unprecedented scales.
To address these challenges, the NCSC has developed some guidelines for secure AI system development.
Cyber Essentials: Strengthening Security and Facilitating Insurance
The NCSC’s Cyber Essentials scheme continues to play a role in helping organisations protect against common cyber threats. By implementing five key controls: firewalls, secure configuration, user access control, malware protection, and patch management, businesses can significantly enhance their cyber security practices.
Achieving Cyber Essentials also facilitates the procurement of cyber insurance. Insurers often recognise the certification as evidence of a proactive approach to cyber security, which can lead to more favourable policy terms.
As cyber security experts who offer a proactive partnership to their clients, we can enhance your business’s cyber resilience and secure it against cyber threats.
To find out more, drop us a message and let’s arrange a chat.
