Government also announces global workforce coalition.
UK Government is developing a cybersecurity standard which is intended to protect AI systems from cyber-attacks.
The Code of Practice is intended to equip organisations with the tools they need to thrive in the age of AI: from securing AI systems against hacking and sabotage, to ensuring they are developed and deployed in a secure way, the Code will help developers build secure, innovative AI products that drive growth.
According to a statement, the Code of Practice sets out how organisations using AI can protect themselves from a range of cyber threats such as AI attacks and system failures. This can include steps such as implementing cybersecurity training programmes which are focused on AI vulnerabilities, developing recovery plans following potential cyber incidents, and carrying out robust risk assessments.
Opportunities to Thrive
Feryal Clark MP, Minister for Cyber Security said: “This will not only create the opportunities for businesses to thrive, secure in the knowledge that they can be better protected than ever before but support them in delivering cutting-edge AI products that drive growth, improve public services, and put Britain at the forefront of the global AI economy.
Ollie Whitehouse, chief technology officer at the NCSC, said: “It is vital that we harness the transformative potential of AI securely so that our society can reap the benefits of new technologies without introducing avoidable vulnerabilities and cyber risks.
“The new Code of Practice, which we have produced in collaboration with global partners, will not only help enhance the resilience of AI systems against malicious attacks but foster an environment in which UK AI innovation can thrive.
“The UK is leading the way by establishing this security standard, fortifying our digital technologies, benefiting the global community and reinforcing our position as the safest place to live and work online.”
Global Standard
The voluntary Code of Practice will form the basis of a new global standard for secure AI through the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) – a major step which cements the UK’s position as a world leader in safe innovation.
UK Government has also launched a new International Coalition on Cyber Security Workforces alongside founding partners including Japan, Singapore, and Canada. The coalition – which emerged from the UK-led Wilton Park Summit in September 2024 - will help countries work together to tackle cyber threats and address the global cyber skills gap.
This new partnership will strengthen international cooperation on cyber security, breaking down barriers to career progression and increasing diversity in the sector. Current estimates show that supporting cyber skills will boost the £11.9 billion cybersecurity industry which will in turn help to drive growth in the British economy.
Written by
Dan Raywood
Senior Editor
SC Media UK
Dan Raywood is a B2B journalist with more than 20 years of experience, including covering cybersecurity for the past 16 years. He has extensively covered topics from Advanced Persistent Threats and nation-state hackers to major data breaches and regulatory changes.
He has spoken at events including 44CON, Infosecurity Europe, RANT Conference, BSides Scotland, Steelcon and ESET Security Days.
Outside work, Dan enjoys supporting Tottenham Hotspur, managing mischievous cats, and sampling craft beers.
