The National Cyber Resilience Centre Group (NCRCG) has announced the addition of SAS, a leader in AI and analytics, as a National Ambassador. This strategic collaboration between the Home Office, policing, academic, and other National Ambassador partners aims to strengthen the cyber resilience of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK.
By joining the likes of Aviva, CGI, Chainalysis, KPMG, Mastercard, Microsoft, NatWest Group, SANS Institute, and The Very Group, SAS will work closely with the UK government and policing to enhance the cyber resilience of SMEs, including those within their supply chains and customer base.
Caroline Barnett, Principal Industry Consultant at SAS UK, highlighted the importance of technological innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. She emphasized the potential of AI to provide additional capabilities for cyber defenders, while also acknowledging the increased risk it presents. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) recently published its assessment of the impact and implications of AI on the cyber threat, emphasizing the likelihood of AI increasing the volume and impact of cyber-attacks.
Barnett also noted the ongoing efforts across industry, academia, and government to strengthen the resilience of the UK’s digital economy. The UK Government has initiated a consultation on a Cyber Governance Code of Practice to support directors in driving greater cyber resilience across their businesses. The NCRCG plays a critical role in this collaborative approach to educate, support, and improve cybersecurity across the UK’s small and medium-sized businesses.
Detective Superintendent Ian Kirby, CEO at NCRCG, underscored the significance of the National Ambassador programme in supporting SMEs in bolstering their cyber resilience. He emphasized that the National Ambassadors provide valuable insights into their experience and management of cyber threats, serving as conduits through which the NCRCG and their network of regional Cyber Resilience Centres can benefit thousands more SMEs.
Kirby expressed his delight in welcoming SAS on board, citing their expertise in analytics, AI, and data management. He expressed confidence in SAS’s support enabling the NCRCG to advance their work and continue building a cyber-resilient economy at a rapid pace.
The inclusion of SAS as a National Ambassador further strengthens the collaborative efforts to enhance the cyber resilience of SMEs in the UK. With their expertise in AI and analytics, SAS is well-positioned to contribute significantly to the ongoing mission of the NCRCG and its partners. This strategic collaboration is pivotal in addressing the evolving cyber threats and ensuring the resilience of the UK’s digital economy.