The government has launched a consultation looking at the security and resilience of UK data centres and cloud infrastructure.

Naturally the call to arms features the banal catchphrases favoured by the current politicians. So, the intention to “unlock the power” of data, “level up the entire UK” and use of “repatriated powers”. But, looking beyond that the principle is sound. Cloud adoption and usage are showing no signs of slowing down and data is a key asset. It is important for the economy to ensure the UK IT infrastructure remains able to cope with continued growth. At the same time, it needs to be resilient enough to handle increased cyber security threats.

In particular, the consultation focuses on unwanted access to large-scale data and disruption of the digital services that the infrastructure underpins. The consultation is in three parts:

• Part 1 explores the risks to UK data storage and processing infrastructure. Unsurprisingly, one of the risks identified is national security threats by “malign state actors”.
• Part 2 explores the security and resilience measures for data centres. This includes measures already in place and what government-led interventions could be beneficial.
• Part 3 looks at who would be affected when data and digital services are compromised. It asks data centre operators, cloud platform providers and MSPs for a breakdown of their customer base.

If you’re looking for changes to this sector, now is your chance to be heard. The consultation closes on 24 July 2022.

If you need advice, contact me f.jennings@teacherstern.com or +44 (0) 20 7611 2338.

This article first appeared on the Teacher Stern website.