NHS Urges Suppliers to Beef Up Cybersecurity: Ransomware is No Laughing Matter!
The NHS has unveiled a voluntary cybersecurity charter to tackle ransomware and protect patient data. Suppliers are urged to follow eight security pledges, including multi-factor authentication and 24/7 monitoring. With ransomware threats “endemic,” the NHS aims to boost security and safeguard services—or risk a digital diagnosis of “Oops, we did it again!”
Hot Take:
It looks like the NHS is finally telling its suppliers: “It’s not us, it’s you.” With cyber threats becoming more common than a bad hospital cafeteria meal, the NHS is asking its suppliers to step up their cybersecurity game. Because let’s face it, when your pathology supplier gets hit with ransomware from a gang that sounds like a new Star Trek villain (Qilin, anyone?), it’s time to start taking things seriously. So, suppliers, get ready to sign on the dotted line of this digital prenup, or you might find yourself on the outs faster than you can say ‘data breach’.”
Key Points:
- NHS urges suppliers to adopt a voluntary cybersecurity charter to combat growing cyber threats.
- Ransomware attacks on NHS supply chain, like the one on Synnovis, have led to major disruptions.
- The charter outlines eight security pledges, including MFA and updated systems.
- Suppliers can sign the charter with a self-assessment form available in Autumn 2025.
- UK’s upcoming Cyber Security and Resilience Bill will impose further supply chain security requirements.