UK cyber chief warns of AI-powered attacks on critical infrastructure by 2028
The UK's National Cyber Security Centre says AI malware is highly likely to feature in a ransomware attack on critical systems within two years.
The UK's National Cyber Security Centre says AI-powered malware is highly likely to be used in a ransomware attack on critical national infrastructure by 2028. The warning comes from its State of the Cyber Nation report, led by NCSC chief executive Dr Richard Horne.
The response includes £60 million for the first phase of a national Cyber Shield, £70 million for a National Exposure and Real-Time Vulnerability Centre, and a new AI Cyber Security Centre of Excellence in Manchester.
Why it matters
Governments are now putting dates and budgets on AI-enabled cyber risk. For businesses, the practical takeaway remains familiar: patch quickly, keep tested backups, and limit what your automated tools can access.