More skilled cyber-crime fighters needed in UK to fight cyber attacks

National Audit Office confirmed that the number of specialists has not increased in line with the growth of the internet

15:57 14 February 2013

There is a shortage of skilled workers in the UK needed to fight cyber crimes. The National Audit Office (NAO) has confirmed that the number of specialists available in the UK right now is not enough to effectively fight cybercrimes in the next 20 years.

In 2011, there were about 120,000 cyber attacks per day. This number is expected to grow every year thus, the need for more skilled IT specialists.

NAO report also said that lessons in cyber security will now be stepped up in schools in order to produce a new generation of IT specialists who can counter hackers, state sponsored attacks, and online criminals.

Margaret Hodge, the chair of the Public Accounts Committee, welcomed NAO report. She said that the government needed to “work hand-in-glove” with businesses and individuals in order to promote awareness about the threats of cyber crimes.

She is quoted by The Telegraph saying: "The use of the internet for commerce and communication is a force for good, but it also poses new and growing threats that government, businesses and individuals cannot ignore.”

Ms. Hodge added: "With around 80per cent of the internet in private hands, crossing international boundaries and spanning different jurisdictions, the government cannot approach internet security in isolation. Having a robust and well thought-through strategy is crucial if the government is to respond effectively to cyber threats."