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The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the government agency responsible for funding scientific research through an annual investment of £8 billion, has experienced a dramatic surge in cyber attacks in 2025.
Data suggests that the agency has been subjected to over 5.4 million cyber incidents, marking a sixfold increase compared to the previous year. Most notably, more than 200,000 of these attacks were phishing attempts aimed at tricking staff into revealing sensitive data, while over 11,000 involved malware designed to damage IT systems and steal information.
Targeting Valuable Intellectual Property
According to reports, attackers appear to target not just operational systems but also valuable intellectual property, seen as a key focus for state-sponsored threat groups. Intelligence sources point to hostile foreign actors, particularly Russia, as major perpetrators of these threats.
State-Sponsored Threat Activity
Industry reports and UK government officials suspect that Russia’s military intelligence, the GRU, is behind many of these cyber operations, previously known for targeting UK government sectors. The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre confirmed that the GRU, along with groups like Fancy Bear and Sandworm, were involved in espionage and sabotage efforts aimed at UK organisations.
Escalating Threats
The increasing number and sophistication of cyberattacks mirror the rising geopolitical tensions, pushing UKRI and government bodies to enhance cybersecurity measures. Experts warn that evidence strongly points to Russian state involvement in these attacks.
Calls for Stronger Defences
This surge in cyberattacks on UKRI necessitates urgent cybersecurity investment, with calls from officials for more robust defence mechanisms to protect the UK’s scientific and technological assets against aggressive threats. Cyber espionage and warfare are becoming increasingly prominent, making the protection of UK innovation a top priority for policymakers and cybersecurity experts.
Source: Cybersecurity Intelligence
Key Points
- UKRI faces a staggering 5.4 million cyber incidents in 2025, a sixfold increase from the previous year.
- Over 200,000 phishing attempts were reported, alongside more than 11,000 malware incidents.
- Attackers are increasingly targeting valuable intellectual property, with Russia suspected as a primary actor.
- Government officials urge for enhanced cybersecurity measures to counter the rising threat landscape.
- The situation underscores the need for urgent investment in protective technologies and strategies.
Why should I read this?
If you care about the safety of UK innovation and research, this article is a must-read! It highlights the alarming rise in cyberattacks affecting a key government agency, along with the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures. By staying informed, you’ll better understand the ongoing battle against cyber threats and its implications for the nation’s scientific progress.