| Link(s): | ICO and NCA sign memorandum of understanding for further collaboration on cyber security | ICO |
Context
The ICO has announced it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Crime Agency (NCA), which sets out how the orginasations will co-operate to improve cyber resilience in the UK.
Key points to note and next actions
The MoU has been agreed with the aim of ensuring organisations throughout the UK can protect themselves from criminals that steal data for ransom. The ICO will work more closely with the NCA to improve signposting to relevant bodies, including the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), and to ensure they are empowered to report cyber crime at the earliest opportunity.
Stephen Bonner, ICO Deputy Commissioner – Regulatory Supervision, said: “Unfortunately we’ve seen cyber-crime costing UK firms billions over the past years. That’s why it’s crucial that relevant bodies work together to boost the UK’s cyber resilience. This new memorandum of understanding builds on our existing relationship with the NCA and will help improve cyber security standards across the board, while respecting each other’s remits.”
NCA Deputy Director Paul Foster, Head of the National Cyber Crime Unit, said: “The NCA leads a whole-system response to cyber crime, disrupting cyber criminals and putting them before the courts wherever possible. Organisations who are vulnerable to imminent attack or find themselves a victim also need support and guidance, and we work closely with our partners to provide this. We are pleased to be making this commitment with the Information Commissioner’s Office; this agreement signifies our common goal of establishing and maintaining a secure and resilient cyber ecosystem for all.”