The Police Digital Service’s National Management Centre (NMC) has been recognized for its exceptional efforts in safeguarding UK law enforcement against cyber threats. The NMC was honored with a National Cybercrime Programme Chief Superintendent’s Commendation at the annual National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) National Cybercrime Programme, Commissioners, and Chief Superintendents’ Awards.
Established in 2019, the NMC offers round-the-clock support to 42 UK police forces and national functions. Over the past year, the center has diligently analyzed 158,499 cyber security alerts and taken the lead on managing 20 national cyber incidents affecting UK policing. These incidents have ranged from third-party data breaches to potential attacks on significant UK events, such as Eurovision 2023 in Liverpool.
Moreover, the NMC has shared 2,795 actionable cyber threat intelligence alerts with police forces, providing guidance to mitigate potential threats. Of these alerts, more than 1,100 were classified as high priority, necessitating immediate action by the forces to safeguard UK policing from cyber threats. Additionally, the NMC has expanded its services to include enhanced monitoring support for major national and international events, offering 24/7 assistance in ensuring the cybersecurity of these high-profile gatherings.
Stephen Reid, the director of NMC, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “This commendation is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire team at the National Management Centre. We are honored to be recognized by the NPCC for our contributions to tackling cybercrime and ensuring the security of our digital landscape.” This sentiment was echoed by Ian Bell, CEO of PDS, who emphasized the importance of collaboration in combating cyber threats and praised the NMC for its pivotal role in upholding the national cybersecurity infrastructure.
The commendation not only highlights the exceptional performance of the NMC in proactively addressing cyber threats but also underscores the critical role played by the center in fortifying the resilience of the UK’s digital landscape. With cyber threats posing an ever-present danger, the work of the NMC in providing real-time support and intelligence to UK law enforcement is imperative in safeguarding against potential breaches and attacks.
As the landscape of cyber threats continues to evolve, the work of the NMC and its unwavering commitment to protecting UK policing from digital adversaries stand as a shining example of excellence in the realm of cybersecurity. The commendation serves as a well-deserved recognition of the NMC’s indispensable contribution to maintaining the integrity and security of the UK’s digital infrastructure. The NMC’s ongoing efforts in combating cyber threats are essential in ensuring the safety and security of the nation’s law enforcement agencies and the broader populace they serve.