Critical Infrastructure Security,
Geo Focus: The United Kingdom,
Geo-Specific
UK Government Calls for Enhanced Regulation of Managed Service Providers
The British government has announced its commitment to implement stronger regulations concerning incident reporting and the management of supply chain vulnerabilities, with specific legislation first unveiled after it assumed office in July 2024. This initiative aims to bolster cybersecurity measures across sectors increasingly reliant on digital infrastructure.
Among the key proposals in the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, revealed to the public on Tuesday, is a call for the Information Commissioner’s Office to gain enhanced authority as well as the introduction of a two-tier reporting framework. Under this structure, organizations would be mandated to report major cyber incidents that cause significant disruptions within 24 hours of detection. A comprehensive incident report would need to be submitted within 72 hours to the National Cyber Security Center. Additionally, insights from the ongoing governmental consultation regarding ransomware reporting will contribute to the final drafting of the bill.
Currently, companies must notify the Information Commissioner’s Office of any hacking incidents only if they result in the exposure of personal data within a 72-hour window. However, the proposed legislation aligns with a more proactive stance on cybersecurity, reflecting the government’s desire to reduce the risk of disruptive attacks on vital services.
Tech Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized the connection between digital security and economic growth, stating, “By securing the digital infrastructure upon which a growing number of our businesses depend, we can deliver the stability they need to innovate and invest.” This bill will extend its reach to approximately 900 to 1,100 managed service providers who access client IT networks, systems, and data, ensuring they adhere to higher cybersecurity hygiene standards.
The focus on supply chain vulnerabilities highlights an ongoing concern in cybersecurity, as incidents related to third-party service providers have escalated over the past decade. Anthony Young, CEO of British cybersecurity firm Bridewell, remarked, “Increasing incident reporting requirements will also improve our visibility and intelligence of cyberattacks across the U.K.” This assertion speaks to a broader trend in cybersecurity where enhanced visibility can lead to a more robust defense posture.
As regulated entities will now face stringent requirements, experts suggest that the success of this legislation hinges on the establishment of clear and concise expectations. David Ferbrache, managing director of Beyond Blue, mentioned the necessity of streamlining the reporting process, noting the prevalence of complex reporting obligations that exist for large organizations. Fusning these disparate requirements is essential for effective incident management.
The introduction of the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill represents a significant step towards a more resilient cybersecurity framework in the UK. The integration of these evolving regulatory measures could potentially mitigate risks associated with supply chain attacks, aligning with various tactics and techniques outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework. As the landscape continues to shift, organizations must remain vigilant and adaptable to withstand the ever-evolving threats posed within the cyber domain.
