Cyber Crime
Cybersecurity 2025: Adapting to Change & Strengthening Defences in the Public Sector
As 2025 approaches, the UK public sector is entering a transformative phase in its approach to cybersecurity. The landscape is being reshaped by regulatory reforms, the rapid pace of digital transformation, and the growing complexity of cyber threats.
One of the most significant shifts on the horizon is the introduction of the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, which will align UK regulations with European standards. Coupled with updated frameworks like the Cyber Assessment Framework (CAF) and the NHS’s Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT), these changes will offer public sector organisations clearer benchmarks for secure operations.
However, compliance alone isn’t enough. The challenge lies in moving beyond checkboxes to embedding cybersecurity as a core element of every new initiative. Too often, security is treated as an afterthought, resulting in vulnerabilities that could have been avoided. By adopting a proactive, risk-based approach, organisations can not only meet regulatory standards but also build a culture of resilience that safeguards against the unknowns of tomorrow.
Digital Transformation Brings Opportunity—and Risk
The drive to digitise public services is accelerating, spurred on by tighter budgets and the need to enhance efficiency. The NHS App is just one example of how digital tools can streamline services and improve user experiences. But as services migrate online, the public sector must ensure that this transformation is underpinned by robust cybersecurity measures.
More than just protecting systems, there’s a critical need to maintain public trust. People must feel confident that their data is safe. This isn’t just the responsibility of IT departments—it’s a collective effort that extends to raising public awareness. A renewed focus on educating citizens about cyber risks, such as scams and phishing attacks, is essential to securing the broader digital ecosystem.
Recent incidents, like the Synnovis cyberattack in 2024, have underscored the importance of addressing vulnerabilities in supply chains. Public sector organisations often rely heavily on third-party providers, but these partnerships can become liabilities without robust continuity and resilience plans. Strengthening supplier relationships and ensuring they meet high security standards will be a top priority for IT leaders.
Another pressing issue is the management of legacy systems. Technology evolves rapidly, and systems that were cutting-edge a decade ago may now be riddled with vulnerabilities. Adopting a lifecycle approach to technology—where security is considered from the very beginning and maintained throughout—can help mitigate these risks.
A Collaborative and Inclusive Future
One of the most encouraging trends in public sector cybersecurity is the growing recognition that collaboration is key. Breaking down silos between organisations, whether through NHS Trusts partnering with local authorities or broader cross-sector initiatives, can dramatically improve collective resilience.
Equally important is engaging a broader spectrum of expertise. Cybersecurity challenges are diverse, and solutions must be too. By bringing in voices from outside the usual circles—smaller tech firms, independent experts, and researchers—the public sector can gain fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to tackle emerging threats.
Cybersecurity in 2025 will go beyond defence—it will become an enabler for digital transformation. By embracing new regulations, fostering collaboration, and addressing vulnerabilities, the UK public sector can create a secure and resilient foundation for the future of public services.
