Beefed up cyber security measures will better protect the government’s computer systems from threats.

All departments will have an annual cyber health check using more robust criteria called GovAssure.

It will be run by the Cabinet Office’s Government Security Group (GSG), with input from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

It was launched by Chancellor to the then Duchy of Lancaster, Oliver Dowden, at a speech to CyberUK in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

He said: “Cyber threats are growing, which is why we are committed to overhauling our defences to better protect government from attacks.

“Today’s stepped up cyber assurance will strengthen government systems, which run vital services for the public, from attacks. It will also improve the country’s resilience; a key part of our recent Integrated Review Refresh.”

Government Chief Security Officer, Vincent Devine said: “This is a transformative change in government cyber security.

“GovAssure will give us far greater visibility of the common cyber security challenges facing government.

“It will set clear expectations for departments, empower hard-working cyber security professionals to strengthen the case for security change and investment, and will be a powerful tool for security advocacy.”

Lindy Cameron, CEO, National Cyber Security Centre said: “We are committed to ensuring the UK continues to be a leading global cyber nation, which is why we have supported the development of the Cyber Assessment Framework to improve the security of our most critical information systems.

“The government’s adoption of the Cyber Assessment Framework through GovAssure will significantly improve resilience.”

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