This briefing focuses on cyber security – an issue that is causing increasing concern across the NHS. It highlights key issues that governing bodies/boards need to be aware of and is based on an article originally published by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) that has been adapted and extended for the HFMA. The authors are Stuart Bladen CEO of Falanx Group and Jay Abbott Managing Director of Falanx Cyber Defence.
Context
Over the last 25 years, the Internet has evolved from small-scale exchanges between defence organisations to a global vehicle for communications, service delivery, commerce, and marketing.
Cyber security has paralleled this growth. It has evolved from one-upmanship between geeks to a global problem involving organised crime, fraud, extortion, theft, state-sponsored espionage, cyberwarfare, and a free-for-all for hobbyists, stalkers, terrorists, and hacktivists.