Scottish Government announces new co-ordination centre to counter cyber attacks

THE SCOTTISH Government has announced the creation of a new co-ordination centre with the aims of tackling increasing cyber threats.

Scotland’s ability to prevent and respond to the growing cyber threat will be increased with the creation of the new Scottish Cyber Co-ordination Centre (SC3).

The £1.5 million central co-ordination function will strengthen Scotland’s resilience to withstand the highest level of cyber threat. 

The Scottish Government’s Covid Recovery Strategy aims to establish a recognised and collaborative function to combat the accelerating threat of cyber attack.

This has led to the creation of the SC3, which the Government says will pool expertise to share intelligence, provide early warning of cyber threat and attacks and manage incidents and lead recovery.

Recruitment for a head of the centre is already underway, with SC3 set to be formally launched later this year.

SC3 was announced ahead of the start of CyberScotland Week today, which will feature over 100 events and activities across Scotland, focusing on building the cyber resilience of individuals, businesses and organisations.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “At times of heightened international tension, it is more important than ever to ensure that Scotland is ready to defend itself against cyber attacks. 

“Sustaining and increasing Scotland’s cyber resilience requires us to continue harnessing the power of working in partnership, and stepping it up at all levels.

“Establishing a new dedicated cyber co-ordination centre is a bold and ambitious development for Scotland.

“By providing a central coordination function that pools expertise from across a number of existing or developing Centres of Excellence, we can maximise our ability to work together to address cyber threats and attacks – whether that is sharing intelligence, providing early warnings, managing incidents or leading recovery.

“During CyberScotland week, I would urge individuals, businesses and organisations across Scotland to reflect on what they can do to keep themselves and others safe from emerging threats.

“The National Cyber Security Centre has trustworthy and up-to-the minute guidance on keeping safe and secure online.”