The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is the result of a long and deliberate evolution of the UK’s cybersecurity efforts. Prior to its establishment, several different government departments and agencies were responsible for digital protection. However, the escalating threat landscape necessitated a centralised, unified body capable of effectively coordinating national security in the cyber domain. Read more on london-future.
The NCSC: Its Founding and Evolution
In 2009, the UK introduced its first national cybersecurity strategy, laying the groundwork for the modern digital security system. The document underscored that information security couldn’t be separated from overall national security. To be effective, it required close integration with intelligence and other elements of the security sector, along with significant investment in collaboration between the government and the private sector.
A new phase began in November 2015 when then-Chancellor George Osborne announced the formation of the NCSC in London. The organisation was led by Ciaran Martin, well-known for his cyber defence work at GCHQ. Dr. Ian Levy was appointed technical director, a role he maintained within the new structure. The detailed operational principles of the centre were outlined in a document by GCHQ Director Robert Hannigan.
The NCSC consolidated several existing bodies, including the CESG, the Cyber Assessment Centre (CCA), the UK’s CERT UK team, and parts of the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI). Essentially, it became a powerful consolidation of accumulated expertise and a foundation for building a stronger national cyber defence system. Among the previous initiatives it built upon were the “10 Steps to Cyber Security” recommendations, published in January 2015. The official opening, attended by Her Majesty the Queen, took place on 14 February 2017. At the same time, Chancellor Philip Hammond announced a £1.9 billion investment in cyber defence development.
The NCSC has placed a particular emphasis on the public sector, as government structures are increasingly becoming targets for cybercriminals and foreign intelligence services. A key step in this direction was the new UK Cyber Security Strategy for 2022-2030, titled “Building a Cyber Resilient Public Sector.” As the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, Stephen Barclay, noted, the scale of the threat is staggering: of the 777 cyber incidents investigated by the NCSC between September 2020 and August 2021, nearly 40% involved government institutions. He stated that this trend is only growing and requires a systemic response.
The NCSC’s international significance was highlighted by an operation in July 2024. In partnership with its allies, the centre uncovered a massive cyber espionage campaign sponsored by North Korea. Its objective was to steal military and nuclear secrets, posing a direct threat to global stability. The NCSC’s report highlighted the activities of the Andariel group, linked to the 3rd Bureau of North Korea’s Reconnaissance General Bureau. This group systematically attacked critical infrastructure in various countries, seeking to acquire strategically important information and intellectual property.

The NCSC: A Recognised and Significant Authority
The NCSC has become a pivotal institution in the UK’s digital security landscape. It regularly issues warnings about vulnerabilities and provides guidance on best practices for information protection. Thanks to its close partnership with intelligence services and law enforcement, the NCSC is now an influential player in the global cybersecurity system. It actively engages young talent from schools, universities, and the tech community, promoting research and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. For example, collaborations with leading companies like Becrypt, BAE Systems, Claroty, DXC Technology, and IASME ensure the creation of comprehensive solutions and enhance the resilience of the private sector.
