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The UK is an 'information society'. Information systems are now an essential part of the way we live. They enable us to communicate faster and in more diverse ways than ever before - by mobile phone, e-mail, instant messaging, Bluetooth or wireless Internet connection. Not only do they provide us with the ability to indulge ourselves, such as booking holidays, but they run the critical systems behind our access to essentials such as water, electricity and even food. Information systems are so deeply embedded in our everyday lives that we tend to simply take them for granted.
Protecting our information systems – report (PDF file, 565KB)
The confidentiality, integrity and availability of information systems and the information they handle are essential if we are to have trust and confidence in ‘cyberspace’. The continuous provision of goods and services to citizens depends on the smooth running of the information systems supporting them - particularly in the event of a crisis. Importantly, Government cannot make the UK's information systems secure by itself. Most information networks are neither owned nor operated by Government so we must each play a part in protecting all our information systems - from home computers and the IT networks behind large companies to local and central government systems.
In government, it is our duty and responsibility to ensure that the systems underpinning key public services are as secure as possible. For business, it makes commercial sense to protect yourself and your customers from any risks affecting your ability to provide the best possible service. As an individual, you should protect yourself and your family from problems such as computer viruses which can be costly to put right or indecent material which can cause distress. As well, it is important to consider that you may not simply be putting yourself at risk. Your unprotected computer could be used as a means of attacking other systems.
Government is concerned with enabling the public and private sectors as well as individuals to achieve secure and resilient information systems. In order to achieve this we must all work in partnership to address the following five key areas in relation to protecting information systems, the information they carry and their users:
There are a number of key government departments and agencies involved in developing the various strands of work relating to these five key areas. These include: