Cyber Security Bill will prevent future attacks on NHS, says DSIT

The Department of Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT) announced that the new Cyber Security and Resilience Bill will enhance UK cyber defenses and safeguard public services from cyber attacks like the recent ransomware incident affecting London hospitals. Introduced in the King’s Speech on 17 July 2024, the Bill aims to address vulnerabilities in current laws and protect critical infrastructure to support the digital economy. The legislation will extend regulations to cover more digital services and supply chains, strengthen regulators, and mandate increased incident reporting to bolster cyber safety measures. Dr. Saif Abed, a cyber security expert, believes the Bill should enforce strict security requirements for digital and clinical suppliers to the NHS, aligning with EU directives for cyber resilience. Beverley Bryant, a strategic advisor at NHS England, highlighted the importance of two-factor authentication in preventing attacks like the Synnovis incident, emphasizing the need for updated cyber resilience frameworks in health and social care organizations.