Cybersecurity Weekly Update – 24 February 2025

Welcome to this week's edition of our cybersecurity news roundup, bringing you the latest developments and insights from the UK and beyond.

Home Office Contractor's Data Collection Sparks Privacy Concerns

The Home Office faces scrutiny after revelations that its contractor, Equifax, collected data on British citizens while conducting financial checks on migrants applying for fee waivers. A report mistakenly sent to the Refugee and Migrant Forum of Essex and London (Ramfel) contained information on 260 individuals dating back to 1986, raising significant privacy issues. The Home Office has ceased using Equifax for visa fee waiver processing pending an investigation into the potential data breach. Read more

Apple Withdraws Advanced Data Protection in the UK Amid Government Dispute

Apple has removed its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature for UK users following a dispute with the British government. The government demanded access to encrypted material on Apple's iCloud under new evidence-collection powers. Apple, opposing the creation of a "back door" to its encryption service, opted to discontinue ADP in the UK. This decision highlights ongoing tensions between tech companies and governments over privacy and security regulations. Learn more

Sellafield Nuclear Site Improves Physical Security but Cyber Concerns Persist

The UK's Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) has removed Sellafield nuclear site from special measures concerning physical security, citing significant improvements. However, concerns over cybersecurity remain. Sellafield has been under scrutiny due to previous safety issues and cybersecurity deficiencies. Collaborative efforts are ongoing to address these challenges as the site continues to manage the nation's nuclear waste. Full story

UK Government Introduces AI Cybersecurity Standards

The UK government has unveiled a new Code of Practice aimed at protecting AI systems from cyber-attacks. This initiative seeks to provide businesses and public services with guidelines to secure AI technologies, thereby safeguarding the digital economy. The voluntary code is expected to form the basis of a global standard for AI security, reinforcing the UK's position as a leader in safe technological innovation. Details here

Cyberattacks Cost UK Businesses Over £40 Billion in Five Years

Recent findings reveal that cyberattacks have cost British businesses approximately £40 billion in lost revenue over the past five years. More than half of private sector companies have experienced at least one attack, with compromised emails and data theft being the most common threats. Despite the increasing risks, many businesses lack adequate cybersecurity measures, often due to high costs and limited IT resources. Read the report

Stay tuned for more updates and insights in our next weekly roundup.

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