Strengthening Cyber Readiness in the UK

In the wake of increasing cyber threats, UK organisations are facing a critical moment in their approach to cyber security. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has raised alarms over the widening gap between evolving cyber threats and inadequate defensive capabilities. Alarmingly, regulators are calling out businesses for significantly underestimating the severity of these risks. The reality is clear: cyber security is no longer solely the domain of IT and security teams, it’s a company-wide issue, across all management layers, and failure to address it may have serious consequences.

The recent publication of the UK Government’s Cyber Governance Code of Practice on 8 April 2025 marks a key shift in how organisations should approach cyber risk. While the Code remains voluntary, it signals a growing recognition that directors must now govern cyber risks in the same way as any other material business risk. It’s not just about protecting data; it’s about safeguarding a company’s reputation and future. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has endorsed this proactive approach, encouraging organisations to prioritise digital safety to foster innovation and trust.

‍Core components of the Cyber Governance Code of Practice

The Cyber Governance Code of Practice offers a detailed framework for organisations to effectively manage cyber risks. It outlines several key actions organisations can take to ensure they are prepared and resilient in the face of cyber threats. These actions focus on risk management, strategy development, people, incident planning, and oversight:

1. Risk Management
   Organisations should identify, prioritise and assess their critical technology processes and services. Cyber risk must be integrated into the wider enterprise risk management framework, with senior ownership clearly assigned. This involves defining a cyber risk appetite and ensuring that mitigation plans are regularly updated to reflect changes in technology, regulations, and the threat landscape.

2. Strategy
   A robust cyber strategy should align with the organisation's overall business strategy and risk appetite. Organisations must ensure they have adequate resources (people and tools) to manage cyber risks, with clear metrics to track progress and measure effectiveness.

3. People
   Promoting a cyber security culture across all levels of the organisation is critical. This includes providing cyber literacy training and raising awareness about the importance of securing digital assets. Senior leadership must ensure that there are clear policies in place to support this culture.

4. Incident Planning, Response and Recovery
   Organisations must have plans in place to respond to and recover from cyber incidents. These plans should be regularly exercised to ensure readiness and incorporate lessons learned into future risk assessments and response strategies.

5. Assurance and Oversight
   The Code calls for the establishment of a formal governance structure for cyber security, with clear roles and responsibilities at the executive level. Regular reporting on cyber security efforts should take place to ensure alignment with the organisation’s strategy and risk appetite, with consistent oversight from senior executives.

A new era of cyber governance

Castlepoint Systems has long been at the forefront of enabling organisations to navigate these complex cyber security challenges. As businesses face mounting pressure to bolster their defences, Castlepoint’s solutions offer an essential tool for fostering compliance and enhancing cyber resilience. By integrating a proactive, top-down governance model, with visibility over all data risk and value in the network, Castlepoint helps organisations build strong foundations for long-term cyber security success.

As we look towards the future, it’s clear that cyber security governance will be an integral part of business strategy. With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, it is no longer a matter of "if" an organisation will face an attack, but "when." Taking a top-down approach to governance, as outlined in the Cyber Governance Code of Practice, is critical for businesses to stay ahead of the curve and ensure their digital assets and reputation to remain secure.

For more insights into how Castlepoint Systems can help your organisation align with the new Cyber Governance Code and improve your cyber readiness, get in touch with us today.