AI, Blockchain, and Automation: The Future of Secure Contract Management
AI, Blockchain and Automation: The Future of Secure Contract Management Watch the latest episode In today’s digital-first economy, organisations are placing unprecedented trust in the systems that manage their most critical operations. Contracts are no longer just legal documents. They are operational touchpoints that link departments, authorise actions, define responsibilities and carry direct implications for risk and compliance. Yet, manual contract management continues to introduce friction, missed deadlines, and hidden vulnerabilities. For CIOs, CISOs and CEOs, this is not just an efficiency issue — it is a matter of business resilience. Why Manual Contract Management Presents a Risk Traditional contract workflows often lack visibility, consistency and timely enforcement. Missed obligations, unclear approval chains and outdated documentation create gaps that adversaries or competitors can exploit. In the event of a cyber attack, these gaps can severely delay response times and obscure accountability. Automated workflows and intelligent reminders ensure that obligations are tracked, escalations are triggered when needed, and every stage of the contract lifecycle is documented — reducing risk while increasing operational agility. AI in Contract Management: From Insight to Action Artificial Intelligence is transforming the way organisations manage legal and operational risk. AI-driven contract analysis can now: Identify high-risk clauses Highlight compliance gaps Suggest remediation strategies Accelerate due diligence and internal approvals In our Secure | Cyber Connect Community, we consistently see leadership teams benefit from AI-powered insights that clarify legal responsibilities, uncover potential exposure, and support data-driven decisions. As recent ransomware incidents have shown, operational blind spots often stem from administrative oversight. AI ensures that your contracts serve not only as agreements — but as live, actionable sources of operational intelligence. Blockchain-Encrypted Storage: Ensuring Integrity and Trust Even the most sophisticated AI analysis depends on trustworthy data. That’s where blockchain plays a vital role. By storing contracts on blockchain-encrypted platforms, organisations gain: Tamper-proof recordkeeping Immediate proof of document authenticity Immutable audit trails for investigations and compliance audits This level of integrity is particularly important in regulated industries or post-breach response scenarios, where proving contractual obligations can be as important as fulfilling them. Implementation: Five Practical Steps for Leaders To transition from concept to execution, leadership teams should consider the following: Audit Current Processes Map approval workflows, storage practices, and pain points. Automate Workflow & Reminders Ensure key obligations, signatures and renewals are never missed. Adopt AI-Powered Contract Analysis Continuously monitor contracts for regulatory alignment and operational risk. Secure Documentation with Blockchain Protect agreements with immutable, tamper-evident storage. Train Teams & Define Governance Equip legal, IT and operations teams to manage the lifecycle collaboratively. Five Real-World Use Cases These applications show how technology adds measurable business value: Vendor Risk Management AI highlights risky clauses; blockchain preserves agreement integrity. Regulatory Compliance Automation ensures timely renewals and reporting to avoid penalties. Mergers and Acquisitions AI expedites due diligence, while blockchain ensures audit readiness. Remote Workforce Agreements AI helps maintain local compliance across international NDAs and contracts. Incident Response Secure, verifiable contracts support rapid action and liability clarification during investigations. From Back Office to Strategic Asset The convergence of AI, blockchain and automation is redefining contract management as a core element of enterprise security and governance. For board-level leaders, these tools provide more than efficiency — they strengthen your organisation’s ability to defend against cyber threats, meet regulatory requirements, and build trust with stakeholders. Final Thoughts from Our Founder As a cyber security community founder and podcast host, I’ve seen first-hand how organisations can turn contracts from static legal documents into dynamic risk management tools. Embracing these technologies is not just innovation — it is future-proofing your organisation in a digital age where trust, transparency and integrity are non-negotiable. Talk to Us At SECURE | CYBER CONNECT, we work with clients across the UK and beyond to source cyber professionals who understand the intersection of security, technology and governance. Contact us to discuss how our talent network can help you integrate AI, blockchain and automation into your contract management strategy. Join our community for more insights, networking opportunities and expert-led discussions.
NIST’s Lightweight Cryptography Standard: Building Trust in the Age of IoT and Digital Contracts
NIST’s Lightweight Cryptography Standard: Building Trust in the Age of IoT and Digital Contracts Watch the full episode Across conversations with cyber security leaders from the UK, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand – the Five Eyes alliance – one consistent message is emerging: the biggest challenge today is not just the technology we deploy, but the trust we place in it. In a digital world built on connected systems, embedded sensors and automated decision-making, every agreement, contract and authorisation is now part of a complex web of interconnected risks. The question leaders are now asking is not just “Is our system secure?” but rather, “Can we continue to verify and trust the data, approvals, and devices that drive our organisations?” Lightweight Cryptography: Fit-for-Purpose Protection To address this very challenge, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has finalised a new global cryptographic standard: the Ascon family of algorithms, designed specifically for constrained environments. This marks a significant shift in how cryptography is applied across critical use cases, from IoT sensors and embedded systems to smart contracts and automation. Traditional algorithms like AES-GCM, while highly secure, are often too resource-intensive for small devices. Ascon changes this by offering encryption and hashing designed to operate effectively on low-power processors without compromising on modern security standards. Key Features of NIST’s Lightweight Cryptography Standard (SP 800-232) Ascon-AEAD128 provides authenticated encryption with 128-bit security, ideal for resource-constrained IoT applications Ascon-Hash256 supports 256-bit digests to guarantee message and transaction integrity Ascon-XOF128 and Ascon-CXOF128 enable customisable outputs for flexible deployment across embedded and real-time systems Optimised for efficiency, using features like nonce-masking and output truncation to ensure robust protection without degrading performance Why This Matters for Leadership From a strategic perspective, this shift reflects more than just an upgrade to encryption standards. It highlights a broader shift in how organisations think about security: Security must match the context – It must be fit for purpose, whether applied to industrial control systems, wearable medical devices or contractual approvals Trust and verification are now operational priorities – Business continuity depends not only on keeping systems running, but on ensuring that decisions made today are verifiable tomorrow Digital contracts and workflows need lightweight, tamper-resistant protection – Not all security controls should come at the cost of speed and agility For leaders managing infrastructure, legal authorisations, or automated supply chains, this standard offers a clear path forward: encryption that is strong, efficient, and aligned to real-world operational demands. Building Organisational Trust In a landscape where attacks evolve rapidly, resilience is no longer achieved through technology alone. It is built on: Systems that verify data and authorisations at every stage Architectures that balance protection with performance Teams that understand the nuances of emerging cryptographic standards The release of NIST’s SP 800-232 represents a significant step toward strengthening trust across digitally connected environments – and it should influence both technical design and strategic planning. Watch the Latest Cyber Connect Podcast Episode In this week’s episode, we explore the implications of NIST’s new lightweight cryptography standard and what it means for building security into IoT, smart contracts, and cross-border collaboration. Watch the episode now Strengthen Your Cyber Capability At SECURE | CYBER CONNECT, we help organisations recruit the cyber talent they need to support innovation, compliance and resilience. From cryptography specialists to IoT and infrastructure security leaders, our network includes professionals who understand how to integrate advanced security into modern, connected systems. Contact our team today to learn more about hiring for cyber roles or accessing security professionals skilled in lightweight cryptography, IoT, and digital trust architecture.
Black Hat 2025: 10 Critical Cyber Security Takeaways for Leaders and Investors
Black Hat 2025: 10 Critical Cyber Security Takeaways for Leaders and Investors Every year, Black Hat Las Vegas sets the tone for what’s next in cyber security. It’s where the sharpest minds in the industry come together to share the latest threats, defences and innovations. While I wasn’t there in person this year, I spent time debriefing with a dozen trusted insiders, analysing research releases and listening in on key sessions. What follows isn’t a fluffy event recap. This is a practical, strategic summary of what actually matters – for cyber professionals, business leaders and investors alike. Why Black Hat Still Matters Black Hat is not just a tech conference. It is the global barometer for emerging cyber threats and security trends. Think of it as the industry’s version of a weather forecast. If you want to spot what’s coming before it hits, this is where you look. It matters because it delivers: Early warning signals on attack trends Real-world research from both defenders and threat actors Honest conversations on what’s working – and what’s not A genuine space for diverse voices, collaboration and skills sharing A peek into where the market and investment are heading If you care about resilience, innovation or managing risk, Black Hat deserves your attention. Top 10 Black Hat 2025 Insights You Can’t Ignore HTTP Request Smuggling Still Threatens Millions James Kettle (PortSwigger) warned that millions of websites remain vulnerable to smuggling attacks due to mixed HTTP parsing. Full mitigation means moving to HTTP/2 across the stack, not just at the edge. AI Exploits Are Getting Bolder AgentFlayer, a “zero-click” ChatGPT exploit, proved how attackers can exfiltrate cloud data without user interaction. AI-native security is now mission critical. Modern SOCs Are in Flux Upgrading a SOC today is like doing heart surgery on a moving train. AI will play a central role, but human oversight and fresh architecture remain essential. Human Risk Remains Painfully Undervalued Many CISOs shared ongoing frustrations with tools that still don’t address human error and insider threats effectively. This remains a blind spot and an opportunity. Cyber Culture Needs Compassion DEF CON’s emphasis on empathy, mental health and openness is a welcome shift. It takes more than skills to build resilient teams – it takes psychological safety. Pen Testing Must Expand to Infrastructure Application logic isn’t enough anymore. Infrastructure and control path testing are now vital to uncover deeply embedded flaws. AI SOCs Are Taking Over the Floor Almost every vendor demoed AI-powered security operations platforms. AI is no longer just a buzzword – it’s being built into the defensive stack. Cyber Security Now Involves Geopolitics From elections to infrastructure sabotage, the overlap between cyber and geopolitical conflict is growing. Legal and political awareness are strategic assets now. Sexism Was Addressed Head-On Panels like “Hacking the Status Quo” showcased the lived experience of women in cyber. Mentorship, inclusion and structural change are not side issues – they’re central to innovation. Community Is a Force Multiplier Flare’s research on using LLMs to detect info-stealers and its free Flare Academy training proves that open sharing still drives the strongest defence innovation. Practical Advice for Business Leaders and Investors If you’re leading a business or managing cyber investment portfolios, here’s where to focus now: Phase out HTTP/1.1 across infrastructure. Legacy protocols are holding you back. Embed AI responsibly. AI tools are becoming essential in both attack and defence, but without governance, they create more risk than reward. Stop overlooking the human factor. Invest in insider threat solutions, culture, and training. Support your security team’s mental health. Burnout is a security vulnerability. Use community-led resources like Flare Academy to keep your teams current. Looking Beyond the Tech Black Hat 2025 wasn’t just about vulnerabilities and exploits. It was about resilience, inclusion, collaboration and the human side of cyber security. Whether you’re a CISO trying to modernise your SOC, or an investor betting on the next wave of defensive tech, the key message is clear: Adapt or fall behind. Want to stay ahead of emerging threats and connect with cyber leaders making a difference? At Secure Recruitment, we work with organisations to strengthen security leadership and build high-performing cyber teams. We also run Cyber Connect, a growing community for knowledge-sharing, podcast content and practical collaboration. 👉 Explore Cyber Connect and get involved today 👉 Talk to us about building your cyber leadership team
Why MFA Alone Is No Longer Enough: The Rise of Session Hijacking and Info-Stealers
Why MFA Alone Is No Longer Enough: The Rise of Session Hijacking and Info-Stealers Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) has long been seen as a cornerstone of modern cyber security. For years, it has offered a strong line of defence against stolen passwords. But here’s the problem: attackers are no longer going through the front door. They are bypassing MFA altogether, using stolen session tokens and browser data to walk right in through the side. As a security professional, I cannot stress this enough: MFA is still important, but it is no longer sufficient on its own. If your organisation relies solely on it, your defences are out of date. What Are Info-Stealers? Think of info-stealers as digital pickpockets. These lightweight but highly effective malware programs run silently in the background, stealing saved passwords, cookies, autofill data and authentication tokens from browsers and devices. No pop-ups. No flashing warnings. Just quiet, efficient theft. Once harvested, this information is sold on dark web marketplaces where buyers can use it to gain access to email accounts, business portals, cloud platforms and more. This fuels a massive underground economy and enables cyber criminals to strike quickly and quietly at scale. Session Hijacking: The Silent Takeover One of the most dangerous outcomes of info-stealing is session hijacking. In simple terms, attackers steal your session token, which is the digital equivalent of a visitor’s pass that says you are already logged in. With that token, an attacker can impersonate you and access systems without ever needing your password or triggering MFA again. Traditional security tools often fail to detect this type of breach because the session looks legitimate. While the attacker is already inside your network, your team might be none the wiser. This is particularly dangerous in sectors such as finance, healthcare and critical infrastructure, where stolen access can lead to real-world harm. Case Study: PXA Stealer Malware PXA Stealer is one of the latest examples. Written in Python and designed to target Linux systems, this malware has already infected over 4,000 devices across more than 60 countries. It collects sensitive data from around 40 browsers and platforms, then sells it via Telegram through Vietnamese-speaking cyber crime groups. This is not just about stolen email logins. It is about large-scale, highly organised attacks designed to infiltrate businesses and institutions from the inside. The Role of Threat Exposure Management To defend against these evolving threats, organisations must adopt Threat Exposure Management (TEM). Rather than waiting to respond to attacks, TEM enables you to proactively identify, prioritise and fix weaknesses before attackers exploit them. Think of it like a radar system constantly scanning your environment. By combining visibility across identity, endpoint and network layers, TEM helps you reduce your attack surface and stay one step ahead of adversaries. What Cyber Leaders Can Do Now Here are five steps you can take right now to strengthen your defences: Limit session lifetimes to reduce how long stolen tokens are valid. Bind access tokens to devices and IP addresses to prevent them from being reused elsewhere. Monitor the dark web for credentials linked to your staff and organisation. Use AI-powered behavioural analytics to detect suspicious login activity. Run red team exercises that simulate session hijacking scenarios to test your incident response. These steps, while straightforward, can make a real difference when implemented properly. Final Thoughts: From Login Security to Session Security We need to stop thinking about security as a one-time checkpoint. The future of identity protection is about securing the entire session from start to finish. That means monitoring user behaviour in real time, identifying anomalies and shutting down access before damage is done. If your current setup only covers login protection, it is time for a serious rethink. Need help evaluating your exposure or upskilling your security team? At Secure Recruitment, we connect businesses with expert cyber professionals who understand how to deal with threats like session hijacking, info-stealers and identity-based attacks. We also offer access to our Cyber Connect community for insights, podcast episodes and networking with industry leaders. Contact us now to build a modern, layered defence strategy that protects every layer of your organisation. Listen to our latest podcast episode featuring Alistair Kennedy (ACIIS) and Chris Eastwood (The Rybec Group), where we dive deeper into how real organisations are facing – and fighting – these threats.
Quantum Computing: The New Front line in Cyber Security
Quantum Computing: The New Frontline in Cyber Security What if, tomorrow, every lock safeguarding your organisation’s most sensitive data could be opened in an instant—not by a burglar, but by an unstoppable new form of computing? This scenario is no longer confined to the realm of science fiction. The rapid rise of quantum computing threatens to reshape the world as we know it. While there is excitement about quantum’s potential to transform medicine and finance, for security professionals, it represents an unprecedented challenge: the capability to break the encryption that currently protects your most valuable digital assets. Imagine your most secure systems suddenly exposed, placing intellectual property, customer data and critical infrastructure at risk from attacks few can anticipate, and even fewer can fully defend against. Figures from 2025 show that nearly seventy percent of organisations consider quantum computing a leading cyber threat within the next three to five years (Capgemini Research Institute). However, only five percent have a clear plan to defend against it (ISACA, 2025). This gulf between awareness and meaningful action is a ticking time bomb. Quantum: Threat and Opportunity The media tends to focus on quantum as a looming cybersecurity nightmare, given its power to instantly compromise RSA and ECC encryption, the very foundation of digital security. This fear is justified. When ‘Q-Day’ arrives, many of today’s cryptographic protocols will be rendered obsolete. Yet concentrating on the danger alone overlooks the broader landscape. Quantum technology also holds the promise of extraordinary advancements: accelerating medical research, optimising global logistics, and simulating intricate financial models that are currently out of reach. A recent Wall Street Journal survey found that forty-one percent of chief executives see quantum as a competitive advantage, not simply a risk. Forward-looking organisations are pursuing a dual strategy, preparing for quantum threats while exploring how these capabilities could transform their business. This approach ensures they will not lag behind rivals who embrace quantum innovation whilst others scramble to close security gaps. Quantum Risk Requires Board-Level Responsibility Quantum risk has moved beyond the domain of technology teams; it is now a corporate governance issue. Regulators in the UK, EU and US have established clear expectations for upgrading vulnerable cryptographic systems between 2028 and 2031, aiming for full transition to quantum-safe encryption by 2035. Boards will be expected to show they are taking quantum risk seriously and can face personal exposure if they fail to oversee adequate protections. Organisations must now treat quantum risk in the same way they respond to data protection or financial regulation: as a standing boardroom issue, tracked in detail, with clear resource allocations and accountability. Supply Chain and Vendor Vulnerabilities Your data security is only as strong as your most vulnerable supplier. Even the best internal defences can be undermined if vendors or partners – cloud providers, payroll processors, software firms – fail to upgrade their cryptography in time. Regulators will not accept supplier shortcomings as a valid excuse. Despite this, just twenty-nine percent of organisations have reviewed supplier quantum readiness (Capgemini, 2025). Every business needs quantum-readiness clauses in contracts, a well-defined plan from each supplier, and readiness to switch partners if deadlines are missed. Managing vendor risk in the quantum era cannot be left to chance. Building Quantum-Ready Teams: The Talent Challenge Technology alone is not the answer. The most significant barrier to quantum-safe security is a shortage of skilled people. Nearly half of businesses cite a lack of in-house quantum expertise as the biggest challenge (ITPro, 2025). Successfully adopting quantum-resistant measures will require specialists from a range of backgrounds, from cryptography and security architecture to development and operations, all needing to master evolving, unfamiliar protocols. Bridging this skills gap means forging stronger ties with universities and research bodies. Academic collaboration, innovation hubs and cluster projects provide access to fresh thinking and future leaders. Communities like SECURE | CYBER CONNECT play a vital role in connecting industry, academia and government, supporting diversity of thought and accelerating knowledge transfer. Without this, organisations risk costly delays or poorly executed projects that miss the mark. The “Harvest Now, Decrypt Later” Problem Quantum threats are not just about the future. Attackers are already collecting encrypted data today, with the intention of unlocking it once quantum capability is available. This tactic endangers sensitive information such as medical records, financial details, intellectual property, and national secrets, any data that must remain confidential for years to come. Immediate action is needed. Organisations should begin encrypting long-lived data with quantum-safe algorithms and isolating critical information wherever possible. Neglecting legacy data protection risks undermining years of compliance and hard-earned trust. Ten Essential Questions for Your Board To close the gap between awareness and real preparedness, leadership must engage with quantum risk directly. Here are ten vital questions every board should be asking: What is our current exposure to quantum risk? Which systems, data and suppliers use vulnerable cryptography? Do we have a funded, board-approved plan for migrating to quantum-safe encryption? How are we protecting sensitive, long-term data from ‘harvest now, decrypt later’ threats? Have we audited our vendors for quantum readiness and included these requirements in our contracts? Who is responsible for quantum risk within the business, and do they report regularly at board level? What are our plans for recruiting and training to address the quantum skills gap? Are we meeting regulatory deadlines for quantum security upgrades? Are our incident response and disaster recovery strategies ready for possible quantum-based breaches? How will we balance quantum risk mitigation with exploring transformative quantum business opportunities? What metrics are in place to measure progress and ensure we are ready for the quantum era? In Summary Quantum computing is not a distant possibility, it is an imminent challenge that will bring enormous opportunities along with significant risks. The decisions made today will determine the security and competitive standing of your organisation for decades to come. Will you take action to protect your digital future now, or wait until it is too late? If you would like exclusive resources, tailored support, or to
Navigating the Volatile Cybercrime Landscape: Strategic Insights for UK Security Leaders
Navigating the Volatile Cybercrime Landscape: Strategic Insights for UK Security Leaders The cybercrime landscape in 2025 has reached unprecedented levels of volatility and sophistication. High-profile ransomware turf wars, significant data breaches affecting major UK corporations, and mounting economic pressures on cybersecurity budgets have created a perfect storm of challenges for security and business leaders across the United Kingdom. Recent incidents impacting household names such as Marks & Spencer, Harrods, and the Co-Op, alongside breaches at leading operators like Flutter, have highlighted the urgent need for transparent, agile, and strategically sound incident response capabilities. These events serve as stark reminders that cyber threats do not discriminate by industry size or reputation. This analysis provides security leaders with a comprehensive examination of today’s threat environment, offering practical insights on collaboration strategies, workforce dynamics, and leadership approaches essential for navigating these turbulent waters. The Ransomware Turf War: A New Era of Criminal Competition The ransomware ecosystem has evolved into what cybersecurity experts characterise as a “Wild West” environment, where traditional criminal hierarchies and operational boundaries have dissolved. Recent intelligence reports reveal an escalating turf war within the ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) market, with two major criminal organisations competing for dominance through increasingly aggressive attacks on UK retailers. This criminal competition has resulted in several concerning developments: Increased Attack Frequency: Organisations now face the possibility of multiple, concurrent ransomware campaigns as competing groups attempt to establish territorial dominance within specific sectors. Enhanced Attack Sophistication: Criminal groups are investing heavily in advanced techniques and tools to outmanoeuvre competitors, resulting in more complex and persistent attacks. Expanded Target Selection: The competitive dynamics have led to broader targeting patterns, with criminals willing to attack previously avoided sectors to demonstrate capability and market presence. The financial implications are staggering. Cybercrime costs are projected to reach $10 trillion globally in 2025, representing more than triple the 2015 figure. This exponential growth reflects not only the increasing frequency of attacks but also their growing sophistication and impact on business operations. Strategic Response Recommendations Security leaders must adapt their defensive strategies to address this evolving threat landscape: Implement Layered Defence Architectures: Traditional perimeter-based security models are insufficient against sophisticated RaaS operations. Organisations require comprehensive, multi-layered security frameworks that assume breach scenarios and focus on detection, containment, and recovery capabilities. Develop Adaptive Incident Response Plans: Static incident response procedures cannot address the dynamic nature of competitive criminal operations. Response plans must incorporate flexibility to address simultaneous attacks, evolving tactics, and rapid threat landscape changes. Strengthen Cross-Functional Collaboration: The complexity of modern ransomware operations requires enhanced coordination between security, IT, legal, communications, and executive teams. Regular tabletop exercises and cross-functional training programmes are essential for effective response coordination. Data Breach Response Excellence: Lessons from Recent Incidents The Flutter data breach, affecting 4.2 million UK and Ireland players, provides valuable insights into effective breach response management. Despite having no legal obligation to disclose the incident, Flutter’s leadership demonstrated exceptional transparency by proactively informing affected players and regulatory authorities. This approach yielded several strategic advantages: Maintained Customer Trust: Proactive communication demonstrated organisational integrity and commitment to customer welfare, preserving long-term brand reputation. Regulatory Relationship Management: Early engagement with regulators positioned Flutter as a responsible corporate citizen, potentially influencing future regulatory interactions. Operational Continuity: Transparent communication reduced speculation and misinformation, allowing the organisation to maintain operational focus during recovery efforts. Similarly, Marks & Spencer’s response to their ransomware incident demonstrated the importance of rapid containment and clear communication. The organisation’s swift action in containing the breach and providing clear information about limited data exposure helped maintain customer confidence during a potentially damaging situation. Best Practices for Breach Response These incidents highlight several critical elements of effective breach response: Speed and Transparency: Organisations must balance the need for thorough investigation with the imperative for rapid, transparent communication. Delayed responses often amplify reputational damage and regulatory scrutiny. Proactive Regulatory Engagement: Early engagement with relevant regulatory bodies demonstrates organisational responsibility and can influence the regulatory response to incidents. Clear Communication Protocols: Establishing predetermined communication frameworks enables consistent, accurate messaging during high-stress incident response scenarios. Stakeholder-Centric Approach: Effective breach response prioritises stakeholder needs and concerns, demonstrating organisational commitment to customer welfare and business partnership integrity. Economic Pressures and Workforce Dynamics The current cybersecurity landscape is further complicated by significant economic pressures affecting both security budgets and workforce availability. Organisations face the dual challenge of maintaining robust security postures while managing constrained budgets and competing for limited skilled cybersecurity professionals. These economic realities require strategic approaches to resource allocation and team development: Strategic Budget Allocation: Security leaders must demonstrate clear return on investment for cybersecurity spending, focusing on risk-based prioritisation and measurable security outcomes. Workforce Development: Given the limited availability of experienced cybersecurity professionals, organisations must invest in training and development programmes to build internal capabilities. Technology Force Multiplication: Security teams must leverage automation and advanced technologies to amplify human capabilities and address resource constraints. Leadership Strategies for Volatile Environments Effective cybersecurity leadership in 2025 requires a fundamental shift from traditional risk management approaches to dynamic, adaptive strategies that can respond to rapidly evolving threat landscapes. Embrace Uncertainty: Leaders must develop comfort with ambiguity and build organisational capabilities that can adapt to unpredictable threat environments. Foster Collaboration: The complexity of modern cyber threats requires enhanced collaboration across organisational boundaries, including partnerships with industry peers, government agencies, and cybersecurity vendors. Invest in Continuous Learning: The rapid evolution of cyber threats demands ongoing education and skill development for security teams and leadership. Build Resilience: Focus on organisational resilience rather than just threat prevention, ensuring that organisations can maintain critical operations during and after cyber incidents. Conclusion The cybercrime landscape in 2025 presents unprecedented challenges for UK security leaders. The combination of aggressive criminal competition, sophisticated attack methods, and economic pressures requires a fundamental rethinking of traditional cybersecurity approaches. Success in this environment depends on organisations’ ability to build adaptive, transparent, and collaborative security programmes that can respond effectively to evolving threats while maintaining operational continuity and stakeholder trust. Security leaders who embrace these challenges
Quantum Computing in 2025: Why Quantum Security Demands Boardroom Action
Quantum computing is no longer science fiction. It is now an immediate and escalating threat to the way we protect data across the digital world. The traditional encryption methods that safeguard everything from online banking to government secrets could soon be broken by quantum computers. The real question is not if quantum will disrupt cyber security, but when and how ready your organisation will be when that happens. Imagine your company’s digital defences as strong locks. Quantum computers act as master key-makers, able to pick these locks with ease. If you ignore quantum security today, it is like leaving the front door unlocked even as burglaries rise in your neighbourhood. This post will explain what quantum computing is, why quantum security now matters to every organisation, and what practical steps can help transform this urgent threat into a powerful long-term advantage. What is Quantum Computing, Quantum Security, and Quantum Readiness? Quantum computing uses the rules of quantum mechanics, an area of physics that allows particles to be in multiple states at once, to process information in radically new ways. Rather than relying on bits (0 or 1), quantum computers use quantum bits or qubits, which can be both at once due to superposition. This allows quantum computers to solve certain problems much more quickly than traditional computers. This immense speed is both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, quantum technology opens up powerful new opportunities. On the other, it can threaten all data protected by encryption methods such as RSA and ECC, which rely on tough mathematical problems that classical computers find difficult. Quantum computers can break these much more easily, making many of today’s digital locks obsolete. Quantum security is about building new, robust digital defences that can withstand quantum-powered attacks. Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) refers to encryption methods designed to resist quantum attacks, while quantum readiness means preparing your people, technology, and processes now, enabling a smooth transition before quantum attacks become a reality. The Urgency: Why Take Quantum Security Seriously Now? Quantum computers capable of breaking encryption may seem years away, but the risk is already at our doorstep. Attackers are already engaging in “harvest now, decrypt later” tactics—collecting encrypted data today with the intention of cracking it once quantum power is available. Organisations around the world are accelerating their preparations. The US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has selected four PQC algorithms for standardisation, signalling a decisive direction for industry. UK and EU regulators have made quantum readiness a priority in security guidance, and both the public and private sectors are investing billions in quantum research. To ignore this shift is to risk fines, the loss of customer trust, and even national security exposure. McKinsey warns that commercially viable quantum solutions may arrive sooner than expected, leaving unprepared companies scrambling to catch up. Talent, Diversity, and Culture: The Human Challenge Quantum security is not just a technical issue. It is also a human challenge. There is a severe shortage of professionals trained in both quantum computing and cyber security. A Deloitte study reports that more than seventy percent of companies say talent scarcity is their biggest barrier to adopting PQC. Yet, numbers alone are not enough. Quantum security solutions demand collaboration between experts in physics, computer science, cryptography, and risk management. Diversity of thought is vital to create resilient, innovative defences. Cultivating a culture of “quantum awareness” is essential. Everyone from the boardroom to the engineering team should be educated about quantum risks and opportunities. Change management, practical pilot projects, and regular workshops help embed quantum security as an ongoing strategic priority, not just a compliance practice. Transitioning to Post-Quantum Cryptography: Practical Considerations Moving to PQC is not as simple as replacing old locks with new. PQC algorithms often require longer keys and larger digital signatures, which can slow down systems and may bring new types of vulnerabilities, such as side-channel attacks. Organisations must reconsider where and how encryption is applied. Which applications depend on fast performance? How will back-up systems and legacy platforms cope? In most cases, a hybrid approach, combining conventional and quantum-resistant algorithms, will be needed while the technology matures. Large organisations face the added complexity of migrating thousands of cryptographic assets across varied IT environments. PwC’s cyber security survey for 2025 shows that while sixty percent of organisations intend to run PQC pilot migrations within the next year, fewer than twenty percent have a clear roadmap. Navigating Regulatory and Geopolitical Pressures The race for quantum security is as much a geopolitical and regulatory challenge as a technical one. Organisations must take account of guidance from the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the US NIST, Australia’s Cyber Security Centre, and EU’s ENISA. Different countries have set different timelines and requirements, which complicates multi-national coordination. Read the Quantum Risk & Timeline Report | LinkedIn Turning Quantum Readiness into Competitive Advantage Quantum security, while challenging, provides a chance to set your business apart. Organisations that achieve crypto agility—the ability to adapt quickly to new encryption standards—will reduce future risks and position themselves strongly in the marketplace. Start by thoroughly auditing all your cryptographic assets and classifying risks according to data sensitivity and lifecycle. Launch pilot projects using NIST’s PQC algorithm candidates (Kyber, Dilithium, Falcon, SPHINCS+) to test feasibility and assess impact on live systems. Integrate PQC into your zero trust and secure-by-design frameworks to build genuine resilience. Senior leaders and analysts should work closely to translate quantum risk into board-relevant language, ensuring that investment decisions align with actual exposure and change management needs. Learn about PQC at the NIST CSRC Partnering for Success: Collaboration, Education, and Cultural Change No business can manage quantum security in isolation. Forming partnerships with specialised vendors, consultants, universities, and industry groups helps share expertise, resources, and best practice. Leadership and boards must commit to continuous learning. Quantum security is a long journey, and sustained progress comes through steady work, education, and cultural change. The most future-ready organisations will view cyber security as a core
SMEs Are Facing Unprecedented Cyber Threats – Here’s How to Build Real Resilience
SMEs Are Facing Unprecedented Cyber Threats – Here’s How to Build Real Resilience Cyber security threats are no longer confined to major corporations with vast digital footprints. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the UK are now just as vulnerable. The recent attacks in June and July 2025 prove that no business is too small to be targeted. High-profile names like Marks & Spencer and Cartier have made headlines, but local businesses are suffering too. One case that stands out is the collapse of a 158-year-old logistics firm following a ransomware attack. The attack was triggered by a single guessed password. That small gap in cyber hygiene led to the company shutting its doors and hundreds of employees losing their jobs. As a security professional, I can tell you this: cyber attacks rarely succeed because of sophisticated hacking. They succeed because of human error and overlooked basics. Why SMEs Are Particularly Exposed SMEs often operate with limited resources, and attackers know this. Criminal groups have evolved beyond brute-force hacking and are focusing on exploiting people. Social engineering and phishing campaigns are now the weapon of choice because they bypass even the strongest technical defences. Groups like Scattered Spider, which has been linked to major breaches across Europe, specialise in exploiting internal workflows, often tricking helpdesks or employees to gain entry. This is not a problem technology can solve alone. Investing in people-focused cyber awareness training is just as important as investing in software. Schools and Young People Are Becoming Targets Too Schools have become frequent victims of ransomware. One recent attack on 11 schools in Shropshire disrupted coursework submissions and shut down networks. When education systems are interconnected, one weak link can bring the whole system to a halt. Children are also increasingly targeted online. AI-generated scams, phishing emails and manipulative tactics designed to exploit trust are on the rise. It is essential that parents and educators step up to build digital awareness and resilience. Cyber security education must start early because young people are on the front line just as much as businesses. The UK Government’s Ransomware Payment Ban In July 2025, the UK Government introduced a ban on ransomware payments for public sector organisations and critical infrastructure, including NHS trusts, councils and schools. These organisations must now notify the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) before taking any action in the event of an attack. The goal is to disrupt the financial incentives that keep cyber crime thriving. While SMEs are not yet subject to this ban, the message is clear: prevention, preparation and resilience are the only viable options. Paying a ransom is not a strategy, it is a last resort that often fails to restore full functionality or prevent further exploitation. Immediate Actions for SMEs, Schools and Families The good news is that there are practical steps every organisation and household can take to reduce their exposure: For SMEs: Enforce strict password policies and multi-factor authentication. Regularly patch and update all systems. Maintain off-site, encrypted backups and test your restore process. Have a clear incident response plan and engage professional responders quickly if an attack occurs. For Schools and Families: Run awareness sessions to help staff and children recognise phishing and scams. Discuss common online threats openly with children so they know how to respond. Apply parental controls and filters to limit exposure to harmful content. Update all devices, including smart home technology, with the latest security patches. Lock down your home network with a strong password and disable vulnerable features like WPS. Cyber Security Is About People Attackers are focusing on human behaviour as much as technical vulnerabilities. True resilience requires a shift in mindset. It is about building a culture of awareness and preparation at every level. Waiting for an incident to happen is not an option. Want to strengthen your cyber resilience? At Secure Recruitment, we connect organisations with leading cyber security professionals who can design and deliver robust security strategies. Whether you need expert talent, strategic advice, or access to our Cyber Connect community for ongoing support and learning, we can help you stay ahead of the threat curve. Contact us today to discuss how we can protect your organisation.
Cyber Accelerator Playbook: A Must-Know Guide for Founders and Investors in 2025
Cyber Accelerator Playbook: A Must-Know Guide for Founders and Investors in 2025 How Global Startup Programs are Fueling the Next Wave of Cybersecurity Innovation Cybersecurity funding is booming in 2025, reaching its highest level in three years. Startups focused on cyber and privacy tech raised $9.4 billion globally in H1 2025, led by major rounds like Cyera’s $540M Series E and Cato Networks’ $359M Series G. The surge reflects growing investor confidence and an urgent demand for adaptive, AI-powered security solutions. But despite the capital flood, many early-stage startups still struggle to scale and reach commercial viability. That’s where cybersecurity accelerators step in—acting not just as funding hubs, but as strategic guides helping founders navigate regulation, validate products, and connect with enterprise buyers. Why Cyber Accelerators Matter More Than Ever With threats evolving fast and competition for talent and capital rising, accelerators now play a crucial role in helping early-stage cybersecurity startups: Validate use cases and MVPs Navigate fragmented regulatory landscapes Tap into government-backed credibility and enterprise networks Accelerate go-to-market through mentorship and intros In 2025, selecting the right accelerator is no longer optional—it’s foundational to long-term success. UK Accelerators Every Founder Should Know The UK’s cybersecurity ecosystem is anchored by high-impact programs like: Cyber Runway (Plexal) – Early-stage innovation and spinouts CyberASAP – Academic to commercial pipeline NCSC for Startups – Access to national security assets CyLon Spark – Network and growth-stage support LSET Accelerator – Support for immigrant-founded ventures These programs blend government trust with investor access—an essential mix in one of Europe’s most respected cyber markets. Europe’s Standouts: Cross-Sector and Compliance-Driven Europe’s accelerator landscape is diverse and regionally specialized: Wise Guys Cyber (Estonia) – Focused, cyber-only cohorts Tech4Trust (Switzerland) – Bridging privacy and trust tech Cube 5 (Germany) – Early-stage cyber incubator Axeleo (France) – Cyber + SaaS scaling partner Birdhouse (Belgium) – Cross-sector support, cyber-friendly These accelerators help founders localize, scale, and build resilience across Europe’s nuanced markets. Five Eyes & U.S. Accelerators to Watch Global cyber founders can’t ignore the strength of programs tied to Five Eyes nations: R9Accelerator (New Zealand) – Pacific market access CybX Accelerator (Australia) – Intensive cyber mentorship CDL Cybersecurity (Canada) – Government-integrated acceleration DataTribe Challenge (U.S.) – Reverse In-Q-Tel, founder-first support U.S.-based DataTribe, in particular, blends technical rigor with seed-stage investment, helping former defense researchers build commercial-ready companies. Their alumni include Dragos, BLACKCLOAK, and Enveil. Meet Leo Scott – The Founder Behind Founders Leo Scott, Managing Director at DataTribe, is a three-time startup CTO turned investor. His model blends deep tech mentorship, early funding, and hands-on company building. Since 2016, DataTribe has co-built 19 startups and recently closed Fund III at $41M to scale its impact. In our latest Secure | Cyber Connect episode, Leo shares: How to identify “founder DNA” Why accelerators succeed where funds alone fail How DataTribe’s over-resourcing model is reshaping cyber VC Key Takeaways for Founders & Investors: Accelerators are essential to navigating compliance and market complexity Choose a program aligned with your growth stage and regional targets Use accelerators to expand hiring, validate markets, and attract investment Strong accelerator ties improve your odds of long-term success and strategic exit – Watch the full episode with Leo Scott: https://youtu.be/YO3p1f-cZvs?si=a9cufrWZ6VEqic8J – Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5V2lFkmaZYBWKPC2ZuJgXy?si=aa653f1cf26b4ce3 Don’t Miss These Events: Cyber Innovation Day – Nov 4: Global showcase for cyber founders and investors Cyber Leaders’ Summit (Sept 22–23, Belgium): Invite-only for EU leadership International Cyber Expo (Sept 30–Oct 1, London): 100+ exhibitors, 85+ countries Digital Transformation EXPO (Oct 1–2, London): Cyber, AI, and tech decision-makers 🔗 Learn more about SECURE | CYBER CONNECT and how our directory, events, and podcast connect leaders across cyber, data, and AI. Website: https://www.secure-recruitment.com/cyber-connect/ Join the Community: https://smart-connect-cyber.mn.co/ Join the Cyber Leaders’ from across the UK & Benelux | 22nd – 23rd September, Belgium REGISTER INTEREST HERE The Cyber Leaders’ Summit (CLS BNLX) is an exclusive, invite-only event held once a year in Brussels, bringing together senior cybersecurity leaders, decision-makers, and budget holders from across Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg. Join your peers from across the UK | 30th Sept – 1st Oct, London REGISTER FOR FREE Join thousands of leading cybersecurity professionals at the International Cyber Expo (30 Sept – 1 Oct 2025, Olympia London) to explore cutting-edge tech from 100+ exhibitors, gain insights from global experts across 3 stages, and network with industry leaders from 85+ countries all under one roof! Join AI, Cyber, Data & Technology Leaders | 1st – 2nd October, London SECURE YOUR SPOT TODAY Digital Transformation EXPO (DTX) London is where cutting-edge business transformation meets practical innovation, bringing together leaders in AI, cyber, data, and digital technology. Held at ExCeL London, the event empowers attendees to drive real change through collaboration, insight-sharing, and future-focused solutions.
What Cybersecurity Founders Must Know as M&A Surges Past $100B in 2025
What Cybersecurity Founders Must Know as M&A Surges Past $100B in 2025 Behind the Deals, Talent Crunch, and Strategic Moves Fueling a Record Year for Startups The cybersecurity sector is on fire – and not just because of evolving threats. In the first half of 2025 alone, global startup M&A activity hit a staggering $100 billion. If you’re a cybersecurity founder, the signal is clear: the market is consolidating fast, and the stakes are rising just as quickly. Startups like Wiz, which became the centerpiece of Google’s record acquisition, and OpenAI’s $6.5B deal for iO, have catapulted the AI and cybersecurity narrative into the M&A spotlight. While deal volume remains steady, valuations are soaring, and competition for strategic acquisitions is fierce. So what does this mean for cybersecurity startups? AI + Cyber = Investor Magnet Cybersecurity has never been a hotter vertical for venture capital. In recent years, over $41 billion has been invested in startups that blend artificial intelligence, automation, and scalable security solutions. The threats are evolving, but so is the technology – and VCs are paying attention. Attack vectors now include AI-powered malware, deepfakes, and exploited cloud misconfigurations. Startups that build composable, real-time, and adaptive tools are the ones getting funded. The message from investors is clear: proactive innovation beats reactive defense. Talent Shortage = Opportunity Despite a cybersecurity workforce of 4.7 million globally, there’s still a projected 3.5 million unfilled roles in 2025. For founders, this presents a dual challenge: build products that augment overworked teams, and position your startup as part of the solution to the talent bottleneck. Startups offering upskilling platforms, automation tools, or AI-powered security operations are attracting investor attention from the likes of Ballistic Ventures and March Capital. Beyond Capital: The Strategic VC Ecosystem Today’s top cybersecurity investors are offering more than just capital. From Ten Eleven Ventures to Pelion Venture Partners, firms are bringing hands-on mentorship, access to regulated markets, and direct introductions to customers. Accelerators and events like DataTribe’s Cyber Innovation Day provide unmatched exposure for founders. The playbook is changing – and founders who tap into the right ecosystem have an undeniable edge. Founder to Watch: Leo Scott, DataTribe DataTribe, led by Leo Scott, exemplifies the modern startup-investor relationship. More than a VC, DataTribe is a builder. Under Scott’s leadership, they’ve co-built 19 startups, including Dragos and BLACKCLOAK, offering operational support from ideation to scale. Their hybrid model is built for founders with deep tech and a bold mission. If you’re looking to scale a cyber startup, this is a team to watch. Top 5 Reasons Founders Are Partnering With Cyber VCs Access to capital to accelerate GTM Deep regulatory and sector expertise Scalable hiring support Strategic introductions to enterprise clients Market validation from credible backers. Want to Dive Deeper? Watch our full podcast episode with Leo Scott to hear his take on: – What “founder DNA” looks like – The biggest blind spots VCs still have – How DataTribe is rewriting the startup playbook Watch now: YouTube Episode Listen: Spotify Episode More Resources: Cyber Innovation Day – Learn More Secure | Cyber Connect Podcast Library Explore the latest insights, founder spotlights, and community-driven thought leadership at Secure | Cyber Connect.
