Francis Maude visits Malvern's cyber defence businesses
Francis Maude has visited Malvern to meet local cyber defence businesses.
Francis Maude has visited Malvern to meet local cyber defence businesses. The Minister toured the area known locally as ’cyber valley’ and met with local SMEs.
During the visit Francis Maude officially opened the country’s first ‘dirty lab’ set up in Malvern Hills Science Park. The lab -has been part-funded by the government. It is designed to simulate attacks from hackers and test measures against viruses in a secure environment.
The lab has been set up by local companies Encription, Borwell and 3sdl and also offers training facilities for people learning cyber defence techniques.
Francis Maude said:
Data is the 21st century’s raw material and offers immense possibilities, we need to harness the opportunities this provides while also protecting ourselves.
“Government is working to raise awareness of the potential cyber threat to businesses reputation, revenues and intellectual property. But cyber security also offers huge benefits for businesses and is an important growth area for our economy. > > My visit to Malvern is an excellent opportunity to see and hear about the work local businesses and SMEs are undertaking. I look forward to discussing how Government can help develop the UK SME cyber sector and work hand-in-hand with industry to support its growth.