The UK government has significantly updated its National Risk Register, officially adding the risk of interference in the UK’s democratic process. This move follows recent announcements of new measures aimed at safeguarding democracy, including stricter checks on company donations and a cap on overseas contributions. The updated register, published today alongside the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister’s Annual Resilience Statement to Parliament, also introduces seven other new risks, reflecting the evolving threat landscape facing the nation.
Among the newly identified threats are sophisticated cyber attacks targeting critical data infrastructure, water supplies, and police systems. The government explicitly links this heightened risk to the rapid increase in the sophistication and proliferation of artificial intelligence technologies. Another notable addition is 'digital resilience failure', a direct response to lessons learned from the widespread Crowdstrike IT outage in July 2024. Conversely, the threat of disruption to Russian gas supplies has been removed from the register, reflecting the UK's reduced reliance on Russian energy.
To bolster national preparedness, the government is set to launch a landmark national resilience campaign later this year. This initiative aims to encourage the public to take simple, proactive steps to improve household resilience against various risks, including cyber attacks, flooding, and severe weather. The campaign will build upon existing guidance available on GOV.UK Prepare and seeks to align the UK with many European nations that already run similar public awareness programmes. New resources for schools and colleges are also planned, ensuring that people of all ages can learn how to stay safe in an emergency.
In a move to strengthen local emergency response capabilities, regional and local mayors are expected to play a more prominent and formalised role. These plans are currently being explored through a consultation on the Civil Contingencies Act 2004. While the Act is generally considered fit for purpose, this consultation fulfils a democratic obligation for regular reviews. The Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, Darren Jones, emphasised the importance of continuous evaluation and planning, noting the record-breaking temperatures experienced in May and June, and the dual nature of AI as both an economic opportunity and a tool for criminal cyber attacks.
The implications for UK businesses and consumers are significant. For businesses, the increased focus on cyber attacks on data and critical infrastructure underscores the urgent need for robust digital security measures and resilience planning. The regulatory landscape, including the UK ICO and the forthcoming EU AI Act, will likely see further emphasis on accountability for AI-driven systems and data protection. Consumers, meanwhile, are being urged to take personal responsibility for their preparedness, with the upcoming public awareness campaign providing practical guidance. Experts suggest that while AI presents new avenues for cyber threats, it also offers opportunities for developing advanced defensive technologies, creating a dynamic environment for the UK's tech sector.