Cyber security in 2025: What you need to know from the NCSC Annual Review
Blog|by Leanne Bevan|23 October 2025
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has published its 2025 Annual Review - and it’s a wake-up call. From ransomware surges to AI-powered threats, the cyber landscape is shifting fast. Here’s what you need to know to stay ahead.
1. Cyber incidents are escalating fast
Between September 2024 and August 2025, the NCSC responded to 204 nationally significant cyber incidents - a 130% increase year-on-year. In total, 429 incidents required direct support out of 1,727 reports. So, the message is clear: cyber threats are growing in scale, complexity and impact.
2. Ransomware and nation-state attacks are on the rise
Ransomware remains the most disruptive threat, with high-profile attacks hitting Marks & Spencer, Co-op Group, and Jaguar Land Rover. Nation-state actors are also stepping up their game:
- China: Flax Typhoon group
- Russia: Authentic Antics malware
- Iran: Targeting critical infrastructure
- North Korea: Fake IT worker scams
These groups are deploying increasingly sophisticated tactics - making international cyber diplomacy and defence more vital than ever.
3. AI is changing the game - for better or worse
Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models (LLMs) are now part of the cyber arms race. Attackers are using AI to automate and personalise phishing campaigns. Meanwhile, defenders are leveraging AI to boost detection and response. The NCSC is also preparing for post-quantum cryptography and next-gen digital identity frameworks.
4. Cyber security is a board-level priority
Cyber risk isn’t just an IT issue — it’s a strategic business concern. The NCSC is urging FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 companies to:
- Sign up for the Early Warning service
- Ensure suppliers meet Cyber Essentials standards
- Treat cyber security as a boardroom issue, not a back-office task
5. Resilience is the new standard
Resilience engineering is now central to cyber defence. Key practices include:
- Immutable backups
- Disaster recovery testing
- Cyber governance training for boards
Organisations with Cyber Essentials certification saw 92% fewer insurance claims - proof that proactive security pays off. And if that's something you're looking into, we recommend using CyberSmart for support with achieving and monitoring your compliance with the certification. As for backup, disaster recovery and awareness training, we've also got you covered - check out our cyber security solutions.
6. The financial fallout is real - but recoverable
The average cost of a cyber attack now exceeds £1 million. However, there’s good news: Q2 2025 saw a 27% drop in direct financial losses, suggesting that smarter response strategies are starting to make a difference.
How are you going to stay confident in the evolving cyber landscape?
The NCSC’s 2025 review is a clear signal: cyber threats are evolving, but so are our defences. By embracing AI, embedding cyber security into boardroom conversations, and investing in resilience, you can stay secure - and stay ahead.
And you don't have to do it alone - we can help you. Our free seven layers of security assessment highlights the seven fundamental areas of security you should have in place to build a fortress around your data and systems. Our experts will find gaps and offer tips on how you can remediate them. Book your appointment now - fill in the contact form below.
Stay informed. Stay secure. Stay confident.
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