National Security Strategy outlines key priority of cyber-security

Report states that activity in cyberspace is stated to continue to evolve as a direct national security and economic threat.

The National Security Strategy has been published, which outlines one of its key priorities as cyber-security.

The government, the private sector and citizens are stated as under sustained attack from both hostile states and criminals, and cyber security is assessed as one of the highest priority national security risks to the UK, to stop this threat becoming even worse.

The report states that activity in cyberspace is stated to continue to evolve as a direct national security and economic threat, and continues to grow as a terrorist enabler, as well as a military weapon for use by states and possibly others.

By getting cyber security posture right across the full spectrum of activities is also a great opportunity for the UK to capitalise on national economic and security comparative advantages.

Cyber-crime has been estimated to cost as much as $1 trillion per year globally.

The report states the number of global web users has risen from 16 million in 1995 to more than 1.7 billion today, and that by 2015, there will be more interconnected devices on the planet than humans.

Home Secretary Theresa May said: "We want a secure and resilient United Kingdom that plays a part in shaping a stable world. This strategy helps us to achieve that by setting priorities and a clear focus for our efforts."

Further information:
Cabinet Office