Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps his Department is taking to improve access to cybersecurity training for small and medium-sized enterprises in Northern Ireland.

Cyber security is a priority for the government. We are taking action to protect businesses, citizens and essential services against cyber threats. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) offers a range of free cyber security training, including a free online module for small organisations called ‘Top Tips For Staff’, a cyber incident management training package called ‘Exercise in a Box’, and training for boards and directors as part of the government’s cyber governance package to help organisations manage digital risks.

Cyber security training is also widely available on a commercial basis, including in Northern Ireland where there is a successful, growing cyber security sector with 128 cyber security providers supporting over £237 million direct GVA to the local economy and employing over 2,750 people.

SMEs are also encouraged to take advantage of the NCSC’s Small Business Guide to improve their resilience, and to create a Cyber Action Plan for a personalised list of actions to help businesses improve their cyber security.