Current Filter: Security>>>>>>

   

The chairman of the ISC, Sir Malcolm Rifkind MP, had this to say when delivering its findings: "Despite the increased profile of other threats, such as cyber security, counter-terrorism work rightly remains the primary focus of the intelligence and security agencies. Their work analysing intelligence to understand the threat and seeking to help prevent attacks remains crucial to our national security. The agencies have expanded their coverage of terrorist activity, particularly outside the UK, where the number of groups that have to be investigated is increasing, as Al-Qaeda becomes more fragmented.

"The growing collaboration between Al-Qaeda affiliate organisations at both strategic and operational levels continues to be of concern, as is the increasing potential for those who travel overseas to train and fight alongside one of the Al-Qaeda affiliate groups, subsequently returning to the UK and posing a threat to the UK's national security," warns Rifkind.

"Recent convictions demonstrate that there are still individuals and groups who intend to carry out attacks in the UK. We note that the shape of the terrorist threat is potentially changing from tightly organised cells under the control of structured hierarchies to looser networks of small groups and individuals who operate more independently: 'lone actors', without substantive links to terrorist groups, continue to pose a threat."

The threat the UK is facing from cyber attacks is disturbing in its scale and complexity. "We have been told this year that the threat is at its highest level ever. The theft of intellectual property, personal details, and classified information causes significant harm, both financial and non-financial. It is incumbent on everyone - individuals, companies and the Government - to take responsibility for their own cyber security. We support the Government's efforts to raise awareness and, more importantly, to strengthen our nation's defences. "The agencies continue to focus on countering hostile foreign activity and covert intelligence gathering. However, they acknowledge that much of their work remains preparatory. The scale of the UK's effort will need to be constantly reviewed against that not just of our adversaries, but also our allies: the committee is concerned that this is an area where the UK cannot afford to fall behind."

All in all, security has never had such a high profile - nor more determined enemies. Whether it be at governmental level or within organisations across the UK, the need for vigilance is a constant. In a very uncertain world, only one thing remains certain: that the threats will continue to grow and so the determination to match these must constantly prove their equal.

Brian Wall
Editor
Computing Security
brian.wall@btc.co.uk