The UK has introduced a cybersecurity guidance package, “Secure Innovation”, aimed at helping tech startups protect themselves against common cyber threats including targeted intrusions from hostile states.
This initiative, launched by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) within MI5 is now backed by Five Eyes intelligence alliance partners- the US, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.
Secure Innovation is designed to assist young and growing tech companies in developing customised actions plans that allow them to assess their security levels and adopt cost-effective strategies to protect their intellectual property, reputation and future viability.
The NCSC has reported over 500 organisations have already used the guidance.
MI5 director general Ken McCallum said, “Sophisticated nation-state adversaries, like China, are working hard to steal the intellectual property held by some of our countries’ most innovative and exciting startups.”
“The Five Eyes Secure Innovation advice we’re rolling out today forms part of our response. By joining up with our allies and offering consistent advice, we are making it easier for companies working across the world to take steps to keep their ideas and products secure.”
The guidance addresses investors in tech startups, urging them to consider security risks during due diligence, such as evaluating a startups security practices, assessing the potential risks of other high-risk investors, and considering future fundraising or sale obstacles due to foreign sanctions or compliance concerns.
Matt Gibney, Chief Technology Officer at adCAPTCHA said, “Security should be a top priority for any business as everyone can be a target of cyber threats and bot attacks. The current digital landscape leaves millions of entry points for malicious cyber criminals, who can easily access websites and advertising spaces to infiltrate systems and steal data.
“To make matters worse, many organisations have no idea that bots are scraping away in the background and costing millions every day due to fraudulent views and impressions from non-existent customers.”
“It’s encouraging to see the NCSC working with industry to tackle the wave of cyber threats through guidance and support packages, but it’s vital that organisations of all sizes buy in and invest in their security. The cost of data loss far outweighs the cost of security infrastructure, so business leaders must prioritise the value of keeping their data safe.”
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