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NCSC warns AI-powered malware likely to hit UK infrastructure by 2028

The agency's annual review also says Russia and China will routinely use AI in cyberattacks.

The short version

  • The National Cyber Security Centre says AI-powered malware is highly likely to be used in hacking attacks on UK power stations, airports and hospitals by 2028.[The Guardian]
  • The agency's annual review also warns that Russia and China will begin using AI routinely in cyber-attacks.[The Guardian]
  • NCSC chief Richard Horne said organizations that underinvest in cybersecurity could face questions over disrupted food supplies and power.[ABC News]
  • The NCSC reports that malicious cyber activity costs UK organizations almost $20 billion every year.[ABC News]

Key facts

  • The NCSC says AI-powered malware is highly likely to be used in hacking attacks on UK power stations, airports and hospitals by 2028.[The Guardian]
  • The NCSC's annual review warns that Russia and China will start using AI routinely in cyber-attacks.[The Guardian]
  • NCSC chief Richard Horne said leaders who fail to invest in cybersecurity may have to explain disruptions to food and power supplies.[ABC News]
  • The NCSC reports that malicious cyber activity costs UK organizations almost $20 billion every year.[ABC News]

What remains uncertain

  • The 2028 timeline is a likelihood assessment, not a confirmed forecast of when specific attacks will occur.[The Guardian]
  • Horne's warnings about the consequences of underinvestment are his own stated views rather than verified outcomes.[ABC News]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.