The UK Government is introducing a Code of Practice to protect Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems from cyber threats
This Code of Practice will ensure that AI can safely contribute to the UK’s digital economy as it increasingly relies on technology to drive innovation.
After this new practice has successfully shown its ability, it is expected to become a new standard globally and will play an important role in protecting AI from cyberattacks.
Protecting AI systems from cyber threats
AI technology is becoming increasingly used in multiple sectors, and as its adoption continues to accelerate, so do the cyber risks associated with these systems.
The UK’s new Code of Practice offers businesses and organisations a clear framework for protecting AI systems from a range of cyber threats, such as hacking, sabotage, and system failures.
With cyberattacks affecting half of UK businesses in the last year alone, ensuring secure AI systems is paramount for maintaining trust in the digital economy.
The Code of Practice outlines practical steps that companies and public service providers can follow to safeguard AI.
This will include creating specialised cybersecurity training programs focused on AI vulnerabilities, developing recovery plans for potential cyber incidents, and conducting thorough risk assessments.
By using these guidelines and training, businesses can use AI more safely and reduce their vulnerability.
Securing innovation
The main benefit of these new guidelines is that they allow businesses to innovate securely. As AI can transform public services, improve productivity, and boost economic growth, establishing strong cybersecurity measures is key to releasing its full potential.
The Code of Practice offers a set of guidelines that will allow developers to create and deploy secure AI products, ensuring they can contribute to the government’s Plan for Change, an initiative to rebuild the economy and enhance public services through technology.
The UK government has emphasised that these new cybersecurity measures will support the growth of the AI sector, which generated £14.2 billion in revenue last year.
Establishing global leadership and international cooperation
Not only does this benefit businesses, but these new plans also open doors to international collaboration.
The Code of Practice will form the basis for a new global AI security standard developed through the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI).
The UK has launched an International Coalition on Cyber Security Workforces (ICCSW) alongside global partners, including Japan, Singapore, and Canada. This plan aims to tackle the worldwide cyber skills shortage, increase diversity in the sector, and enhance international cooperation on cybersecurity issues. With estimates showing that strengthening cyber skills could boost the £11.9 billion UK cybersecurity industry, this coalition will help maintain innovation momentum while fostering a more secure and inclusive digital workforce.
Strengthening cyber governance
The UK’s commitment to cybersecurity is also evident in its Cyber Governance Code of Practice, which helps senior leaders manage cyber risks effectively.
In its response to the code, the government highlighted that many boards and senior leaders struggle to engage with cybersecurity issues due to a lack of understanding or time. To address this, the updated Code of Practice, published in early 2025, will offer clearer actions for directors to follow in managing cyber risks, ensuring they are equipped to respond to potential threats.
