A new scheme that will provide access to companies certified to respond effectively to the consequences of cyber security attacks has been launched today by CESG, the information assurance arm of GCHQ, and the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI).

The Cyber Incident Response scheme has been designed for organisations requiring assistance after a cyber security incident. Primarily aimed at the public sector and organisations forming part of the UK’s critical national infrastructure, the service can also be extended to the private sector.

The pilot scheme includes four companies selected by CESG/CPNI to help provide response services, including BAE Systems Detica, Cassidian, Context IS and Mandiant.

Cyber Incident Response builds on the government's Ten Steps to Cyber Security document, launched in September to provide advice to business leaders on increasing cyber security within their own organisations. It also supports the delivery of the UK Cyber Security Strategy.

Chloë Smith, minister for cyber security said: “The growing cyber threat makes it inevitable that some attacks will get through either where basic security is not implemented, or when an organisation is targeted by a highly capable attacker.

"Cyber Incident Response services provide access to organisations certified by CESG/CPNI to respond effectively to cyber incidents. It builds on the Ten Steps to Cyber Security guidance on how to reduce the risk of vulnerability to attack.

Together, GCHQ, CPNI, the incident response industry, and victims of cyber attack – can improve the cyber security of the UK; that is good for security, good for business and good for the UK’s prosperity.”

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