Menu
17/07/2012
MPs Urge Spy Agencies To Wage Cyber Warfare
In the interests of national security, MPs have urged the UK’s spy agencies and military to wage cyber warfare.
Saying that defending against cyber attacks is no longer enough, the Intelligence and Security Committee is recommending covert operations to disrupt the computer networks of those targeting the UK.
The new report come almost two years after the launch of a £650m national cyber security programme, which aimed to transform the UK's cyber security skills and capabilities by 2015, with more than half of the money allocated to the intelligence and security agencies.
Last month, the head of MI5, Jonathan Evans, said the agency was battling "astonishing" levels of cyber-attacks on UK industry and warned internet "vulnerabilities" were being exploited by criminals as well as states.
The report states that cyberspace attacks now represent a significant threat to the UK and defending against them should be a priority. Continuing: "We believe that there are also significant opportunities for our intelligence and security agencies and military which should be exploited in the interests of UK national security."
Chairman of the ISC, Sir Malcolm Rifkind MP, said: "The committee is concerned at the lack of progress over 18 months into the National Cyber Security Programme, more needs to be done if we are to keep ahead in this fast-paced field."
(H)
Saying that defending against cyber attacks is no longer enough, the Intelligence and Security Committee is recommending covert operations to disrupt the computer networks of those targeting the UK.
The new report come almost two years after the launch of a £650m national cyber security programme, which aimed to transform the UK's cyber security skills and capabilities by 2015, with more than half of the money allocated to the intelligence and security agencies.
Last month, the head of MI5, Jonathan Evans, said the agency was battling "astonishing" levels of cyber-attacks on UK industry and warned internet "vulnerabilities" were being exploited by criminals as well as states.
The report states that cyberspace attacks now represent a significant threat to the UK and defending against them should be a priority. Continuing: "We believe that there are also significant opportunities for our intelligence and security agencies and military which should be exploited in the interests of UK national security."
Chairman of the ISC, Sir Malcolm Rifkind MP, said: "The committee is concerned at the lack of progress over 18 months into the National Cyber Security Programme, more needs to be done if we are to keep ahead in this fast-paced field."
(H)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
18 October 2010
Cyber Crime 'New And Growing' Danger
Ahead of the publication of a new National Security Strategy, Home Secretary Theresa May has said that terrorism threats and attacks on computer networks remain "very serious" and among the biggest threats to the UK. She told the BBC cyber crime was a "new and growing" danger.
Cyber Crime 'New And Growing' Danger
Ahead of the publication of a new National Security Strategy, Home Secretary Theresa May has said that terrorism threats and attacks on computer networks remain "very serious" and among the biggest threats to the UK. She told the BBC cyber crime was a "new and growing" danger.
22 September 2015
Businesses Urged To Take Up Cyber Essentials Scheme
UK businesses have been urged to take up the government's Cyber Essentials scheme, as Minister for the Digital Economy, Ed Vaizey, warns of the growing threat of cyber attacks. The latest figures reveal that 74 per cent of small businesses, and 90 per cent of major businesses, has had a cyber breach of security in the last year.
Businesses Urged To Take Up Cyber Essentials Scheme
UK businesses have been urged to take up the government's Cyber Essentials scheme, as Minister for the Digital Economy, Ed Vaizey, warns of the growing threat of cyber attacks. The latest figures reveal that 74 per cent of small businesses, and 90 per cent of major businesses, has had a cyber breach of security in the last year.
02 April 2003
Regulatory body for security guards and bouncers launched
In a shake up of the private security industry announced today bouncers and wheel clampers will have to be licensed and regulated by the new Security Industry Authority (SIA). The measures are designed to protect the public from rogue operators and create higher standards of recruitment and training for private security operatives and managers.
Regulatory body for security guards and bouncers launched
In a shake up of the private security industry announced today bouncers and wheel clampers will have to be licensed and regulated by the new Security Industry Authority (SIA). The measures are designed to protect the public from rogue operators and create higher standards of recruitment and training for private security operatives and managers.
13 October 2010
UK Infrastructure Faces A 'Real And Credible' Threat
The head of GCHQ has warned, the UK's critical infrastructure, including power grids and emergency services, faces a "real and credible" threat of cyber attack.
UK Infrastructure Faces A 'Real And Credible' Threat
The head of GCHQ has warned, the UK's critical infrastructure, including power grids and emergency services, faces a "real and credible" threat of cyber attack.
14 October 2015
NCA Warn UK Internet Users Of 'Significant' New Malware Threat
The National Crime Agency (NCA) has urged UK internet users to protect themselves against a "significant strain of malicious software" that has enabled criminals to steal millions of pounds from UK bank accounts.
NCA Warn UK Internet Users Of 'Significant' New Malware Threat
The National Crime Agency (NCA) has urged UK internet users to protect themselves against a "significant strain of malicious software" that has enabled criminals to steal millions of pounds from UK bank accounts.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
