STORY
The head of GCHQ is expected to warn that Russia is carrying out “relentless” cyber activity against the UK and Europe. Anne Keast-Butler will use the agency’s inaugural annual lecture to say that critical infrastructure, democratic processes, supply chains and public trust are being targeted.
She is expected to argue that businesses, public bodies and households all need to treat cyber security with greater urgency. Her remarks will also point to the role of GCHQ and the National Cyber Security Centre in disrupting Russian activity, countering sabotage and defending against hostile state-backed cyber attacks.
The warning comes at a time of heightened concern about hybrid threats, including cyber attacks, disinformation and attempts to undermine democratic systems. It also reinforces the Government’s argument that national security now extends well beyond conventional defence and requires cooperation between the state, industry and the public.