UK security chief warns of rising cyber risks and underestimation of threats

Richard Horne, the new head of the U.K.'s National Cyber Security Centre, warned that the country's cyber risks are often underestimated. He noted an increase in hostile cyber activity, particularly from Russia and China, affecting critical sectors like health and education. The NCSC's Annual Review 2024 reported a rise in cyber incidents, with 430 cases handled this year, up from 371 in 2023. Ransomware attacks are highlighted as a major threat, with 347 incidents involving data theft and 20 specifically related to ransomware. Horne emphasized the need for improved cyber resilience, stating that many U.K. businesses are unprepared for attacks. He called for a shift in how organizations view cybersecurity, urging them to see it as essential rather than a compliance task.