Local Councils Face Increased Cyber Attack Threat Amid Reorganisation

• •90.3% of digital leaders believe local government reorganisation will increase cyber risks.
• •The average confidence in current cyber security among councils is 5.86 out of 8.
• •Local authorities are enhancing training and security measures to combat ongoing cyber threats.

As local councils prepare for reorganisation into unitary councils, a survey indicates that 90.3% of digital leaders believe this transition will increase cyber risks. The Cyber Centre of Excellence (CCoE) and the District Council Network (DCN) conducted a survey with 62 digital leaders from 58 councils, revealing a mean confidence score of 5.86 in their cyber security. Concerns include the increased number of collaborative partners and differing cyber security policies among councils, which could complicate data management and security. Meanwhile, a separate report highlights ongoing efforts by local authorities to bolster their defenses against a constant threat of cyber attacks from organized crime groups. Councillors are focusing on training staff to identify vulnerabilities and improve technical security measures. The situation reflects a broader trend of rising cyber threats to public sector organizations.