UK convenes nations for talks on global cybersecurity amid ‘shared challenge’

Ministers will be joined by representatives from the US, EU and others for talks on how to strengthen global cybersecurity

Talks between leading nations on how to tackle the growing threat of cyber attacks are to be convened by the UK on Monday as part of a three-day summit on the issue.

Minister will be joined by representatives from the US, EU and other countries for discussions aimed at fortifying global cybersecurity workforces. This includes ramping up skill sets and forging new professional standards.

These talks are being called following numerous cyber security incidents worldwide. Recent hits include attacks on the Transport for London and NHS providers, as well as the recent IT outage that paralysed global transport and other vital infrastructure.

Last week marked a pivotal moment as the UK heralded data centres as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI). This move confers enhanced safeguards and support against cyber threats, blackouts, and calamitous environmental occurrences.

Amid these global diplomatic efforts, the Government has also announced a fresh initiative. This plan is set to inject funding into universities, councils, and businesses throughout England and Northern Ireland, aiming to increase cyber skills training and to back organisations crafting cutting-edge tech for cyber defence.

Cyber security minister Feryal Clark stated: “The UK needs a significant improvement in its cyber defences after the previous government failed to strengthen our cyber laws we’re fixing that. Later this year, we’ll bring forward new measures to better protect the nation from cyber crime and our new regional skills programme will support the next generation of cyber talent and innovators.”

“But this is a shared challenge, which is why we’re bringing together global allies to discuss and agree steps to keep us safe online, improve cyber skills and protect our economy and public services.”