The City of London Police's Strategic Approach to Cybersecurity Explored.

The Guildhall played host to a pivotal cybersecurity event Thursday 25 January 2024, organised by the City of London Chamber. The event gathered industry experts, government officials, and business leaders to discuss the evolving landscape of cyber threats and the proactive measures taken by the City of London Police to prevent and combat cybercrime.

Pete O'Doherty, Police Commissioner at the City of London Police, opened the event with a historical perspective, stating that cybercrime is not a new phenomenon: it has been occurring for 190 years. However, the methods employed by criminals continue to evolve rapidly, emphasising the need for law enforcement to adapt and evolve alongside the ever-changing nature of cyber threats. Having a flexible and adaptive approach in law enforcement agencies is essential in succeeding.

Gary Brailsford-Hart, Director of Information & CISO at the City of London Police, echoed these sentiments, underlining the inevitability of cyberattacks. He stated, "Defending businesses and governments is not a question of 'if' but 'when.' In response to this reality, creating a community of experts who collaborate and share knowledge and tools is essential to keep up with the ever-changing nature of cyber threats."

During the Q&A session, the focus shifted to the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in protecting themselves from cyberattacks. With limited capital, SMEs often struggle to implement robust cybersecurity measures. The City of London Police presented a solution: the Police Cyber Alarm. This software, developed by the police, can be downloaded by businesses and collects threat information during cyberattacks or attempts. The data gathered is then analysed by police analysts, who provide feedback to businesses on what happened and suggest improvements to internal security.

Additionally, the speakers recommended obtaining cyber insurance, emphasising its role in mitigating financial losses in the event of a cyberattack. They also stressed the importance of maintaining a security focus on key areas of interest, implementing basic security measures, and providing training to relevant staff.

Concluding the event, Police Commissioner Pete O'Doherty highlighted the City of London Police's measures to safeguard women from abuse, both online and offline, including training for police personnel and extending an open invitation for women to seek support from the police. Amy Green, Insurance Specialist at Specialist Risk Group and guest at the cybersecurity event, took this opportunity to emphasise the vital work of the Employers' Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA), representing over 25% of the UK workforce. EIDA focuses on fostering awareness and sharing best practices to bring about systemic change in addressing domestic abuse. Their mission is to empower employers, aid employees affected by domestic abuse and contribute to a society where survivors thrive and abuse is not tolerated.

In conclusion, the cybersecurity event at the Guildhall showcased the commitment of the City of London Police and the importance of collaboration between various stakeholders in the ongoing battle against cyber threats.

For more information visit:

• Employers' Initiative on Domestic Abuse.
• Founded by the City of London Police in 2017, Cyber Griffin is a programme of free cyber security services which supports businesses and individuals in the Square Mile to protect themselves from cyber-crime.
• Police Cyber Alarm
• London Cyber Resilience Centre
• Walk and Talk is open to women aged 18 and above, living or working in the City of London, who would like to walk with an officer and discuss their views on women’s safety. Those who take part in a 'Walk and Talk' can share their views and experiences with officers as they walk through any areas they may feel vulnerable in. Patrols can take place at any time, including in those where there is less footfall, traffic or light, so officers can get a real sense of what their concerns might be.

About the City of London Chamber: 

The London Chamber of Commerce and Industry has launched the City of London Chamber, a business group within LCCI, to convene, support and champion businesses within the Square Mile as it is imperative that businesses operating in the Square Mile have targeted support to grow and prosper.

About the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry: 

LCCI is London’s key hub for the business community. We are accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce and support our members’ businesses through a range of services, products, and events. We are committed to creating business connections and opportunities, and advocate on behalf of London’s business community.

Media contacts:
Vittoria Zerbini - Media Assistant
E: vzerbini@londonchamber.co.uk