Royal Family Faces Cyber Threats from Russian Hackers

Buckingham Palace is undergoing a significant cybersecurity overhaul due to increasing threats from Russian hackers, particularly the pro-Russian group KillNet. This comes after the Palace's website was taken offline for approximately 90 minutes in October 2023 during a denial-of-service attack. The Royal Family's cybersecurity budget has more than doubled, rising from £2.4 million in 2016-17 to £5.6 million in 2025-26, as part of the Sovereign Grant. The upgrade aims to replace ageing computer systems and enhance digital security protocols. Recent NHS data breaches have also exposed sensitive information linked to royal residences. The UK government is collaborating with allies to counter these cyber threats amid escalating tensions with Russia. The Palace's cybersecurity improvements are included in a £99.9 million annual taxpayer-funded settlement. However, specific details about the systems being replaced and their vulnerabilities remain undisclosed.

Key Points: • Buckingham Palace is increasing its cybersecurity budget to £5.6 million amid Russian threats. • The Royal Family's website was previously targeted in a denial-of-service attack by KillNet. • The UK government is enhancing cybersecurity in response to escalating tensions with Russia.