News and Analysis

Criminal gangs with the support of Vladimir Putin, as well as gangs backed by Iran and North Korea, may attack ‘critical national infrastructure’ in the UK, warns security consultant Martin Riley. He spoke after Deputy PM Oliver Dowden highlighted a cyber skills shortage and emerging threat of ransomware attacks. Possible targets include financial systems, transport, schools, the NHS, Armed Forces, and government. Bridewell’s research found significant decreases in cyber defence budgets and a 62% increase in attacks on critical national infrastructure.