Richard Horne, the newly appointed head of the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), has emphasized the urgent need for collective action among the UK and its allies to bolster cyber resilience in response to an increasing number of severe cyber attacks.
Speaking at Singapore International Cyber Week, Horne warned that there is a growing gap between the escalating cyber threats and the collective defense capabilities of nations, urging closer cooperation to address these challenges.
He highlighted that while technology enhances opportunities, it also exposes societies and businesses to greater cyber risks, necessitating a united front to manage these vulnerabilities effectively.
Horne outlined the complexity of current cyber threats, noting a significant rise in nationally important cyber incidents—up by 50% in 2024 compared to the previous year, alongside a threefold increase in severe incidents.
To combat these challenges, he called for coordinated global efforts to enhance cyber resilience, advocating for security to be integrated into technology from the outset. Additionally, he stressed the importance of preparing both public and private sectors not only to defend against attacks but also to recover quickly from them when they occur.
UK Cybersecurity Chief Richard Horne Urges Global Cooperation to Strengthen Cyber Resilience Amid Rising Threats
In response to the evolving nature of cyber threats, Horne highlighted recent international collaborations, such as the guidelines endorsed by 39 nations and eight international insurance bodies regarding ransomware payments.
These guidelines emphasize that paying ransomware does not guarantee data recovery or security, encouraging organizations to report incidents to authorities, assess data backup availability, and consult cyber experts. He noted that this collective approach demonstrates the potential for effective action in cyberspace, which transcends national boundaries.
Horne also raised concerns about the long-term resilience of emerging technologies, warning that without integrated security management throughout the product lifecycle, these innovations could become vulnerable over time.
He stated, “Today’s innovation is tomorrow’s legacy,” underscoring the importance of adopting a lifecycle management approach to maintain the security and resilience of future technologies. To address these challenges, he called on governments to guide the conversation and set standards rather than leaving the responsibility solely to businesses and public services.
Lastly, Horne addressed the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cyber threats, noting that while AI can enhance existing threats, it does not fundamentally alter the risk environment in the short term.
He stressed that organizations must adopt robust cyber hygiene practices and follow NCSC guidance to strengthen their defenses against cyber attacks. By emphasizing proactive measures and collaboration, Horne reinforced the necessity for a unified response to the evolving challenges in cyber security.
