The UK's £1.9bn cyber-security spend – getting the priorities right

Abstract

Late last year the UK Government announced £1.9bn of public investment in cyber-security. And earlier this year it opened the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). 1 Its ‘National Cyber Security Strategy 2016 to 2021’ outlines how the UK will use automated defences to safeguard citizens and businesses against growing cyberthreats, support the UK's growing cyber-security industry, develop a world-class cyber workforce, and deter cyber-attacks from criminals and hostile actors. 2 The UK Government recently announced £1.9bn of public investment in cyber-security. And earlier this year it opened the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). The increased focus on cyber-security and the level of investment has been broadly welcomed in the industry. And the ‘National Cyber Security Strategy 2016-2021’ is not lacking ambition. But how do the Government's efforts really shape up? Are they addressing the right issues, and are they enough? Tracey Caldwell finds out.