The UK government has issued a stark warning about the growing threat of cyberattacks powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking at the CyberUK 2025 conference, Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden revealed that both the frequency and severity of attacks are expected to increase as AI tools become more accessible to bad actors.
1. A Sharp Rise in Threats
In 2024, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) reported nearly 2,000 cyberattacks, with 90 classified as significant and 12 as highly severe—triple the number seen the previous year. Major UK brands such as Marks & Spencer, The Co-op, and Harrods were affected, highlighting the broad reach of these digital assaults.
Many of these attacks rely on advanced social engineering tactics, including fake IT support messages and impersonation schemes, making them difficult to detect and easy to fall for.
2. New Legislation: The Cyber Security and Resilience Bill
To counteract these growing threats, the government has proposed the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, first announced in the King’s Speech in July 2024. This legislative overhaul aims to:
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Expand oversight to cover Managed Service Providers (MSPs)
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Classify major suppliers as ‘Critical Suppliers’ with increased scrutiny
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Enforce tougher compliance and auditing powers
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Improve incident reporting standards
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Include data centres as part of the UK’s critical infrastructure
This proactive move will allow regulators to better understand, prepare for, and respond to emerging cyber threats.
3. AI: Friend and Foe
AI presents a paradox: it’s a powerful tool for defensive cybersecurity, yet equally potent in the hands of hackers. Declassified government documents indicate that AI is being used to enhance phishing schemes, automate vulnerability scanning, and even write malicious code.
In response, the UK is investing £16 million into AI-based cybersecurity defence research, both domestically and with allied nations.
4. Future-Proofing Your Career in Cybersecurity
With AI amplifying cybersecurity challenges, the demand for skilled professionals has never been higher. Whether you’re new to IT or ready to upskill, there’s no better time to explore cybersecurity training:
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Get started with our Beginner Cyber Security Package
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Build your foundations with CompTIA Security+ and SC-900
And don’t forget to join our free cyber webinars every Wednesday at 6:15 PM at cyber-webinar.com to stay updated on industry changes, threats, and career tips.
5. A National Effort
Minister McFadden closed his speech with a call to action: “Cybersecurity is not a luxury—it is a necessity.” The government is even weighing banning ransom payments in specific industries to deter attackers and protect public services.
Ready to join the fight against cybercrime?
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