£400k cyber security drive to protect Rotherham manufacturers

Rotherham manufacturers are being offered fully funded cyber security support to combat the growing threat from attacks capable of bringing production to a standstill.

Made Smarter Yorkshire, the Government-backed technology adoption programme, has launched a new £400,000 cyber security initiative to help SME manufacturers protect their people, systems and operations as factories become increasingly digital and connected.

The Government-funded pilot is being delivered with Sheffield Hallam University and will create Cyber Security Champions inside Yorkshire businesses, giving employees the skills and confidence to spot threats, encourage safer working practices and build stronger cyber defences.

Launching in September, manufacturers will be able to access four levels of fully funded support, ranging from basic cyber awareness through to internationally recognised ISO 27001 accreditation.

The Yorkshire pilot could also help shape how cyber security support is delivered through Made Smarter across England.

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the part of GCHQ which protects the UK from cyber threats, has warned of a growing risk to the UK, with nationally significant incidents more than doubling in its latest published annual figures.