Firms Told to Have Plans on Paper in Case of Cyber-Attack
The UK government has issued a warning to chief executives across the country to have physical copies of their cyber-attack contingency plans, as a precaution against potential disruptions. This advice comes after a recent spate of high-profile hacks, which have highlighted the chaos that can ensue when hackers take computer systems down.
According to Richard Horne, chief executive of the National Cyber-Security Centre (NCSC), organisations need to "have a plan for how they would continue to operate without their IT, and rebuild that IT at pace, were an attack to get through." This warning was issued in response to a significant increase in nationally significant attacks this year.
The NCSC reported that criminal hacks on Marks and Spencer, The Co-op, and Jaguar Land Rover have led to empty shelves and production lines being halted. These incidents demonstrate the potential consequences of a cyber-attack and the importance of having a plan in place.
In an effort to mitigate these risks, the government is urging firms to revisit their contingency plans and ensure they are prepared for the worst-case scenario. This includes having physical copies of their plans on hand, as well as identifying alternative methods for communication and data storage.
The warning comes at a time when cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly common and sophisticated. The NCSC has reported an increase in attacks this year, with many organisations struggling to recover from disruptions caused by hackers.
Experts say that having a plan in place is crucial for businesses to stay ahead of the threat. "It's not just about having a plan on paper," said cybersecurity expert, Dr. Emma Taylor. "It's about understanding the potential risks and having a clear strategy for responding to an attack."
The government's warning serves as a reminder that cyber-security is a top priority for businesses across the country. As the threat of cyber-attacks continues to grow, organisations must be prepared to adapt and respond quickly in the event of an incident.
In response to the warning, many companies are revisiting their contingency plans and taking steps to improve their cyber-security measures. The government has also pledged to provide additional support and resources for businesses to help them stay ahead of the threat.
The NCSC will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on any new developments. In the meantime, firms are being urged to take the warning seriously and have a plan in place to mitigate the risks associated with cyber-attacks.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
