Cybersecurity for Councils: Why protecting data is critical for public trust in 2025

In today’s tech-driven world, local councils across the UK are leaning more and more on digital tools to deliver public services. While this shift has made things faster and more efficient, it’s also opened the door to new risks, particularly when it comes to cybersecurity. What was once the domain of tech experts is now something that directly impacts public trust. Councils handle a staggering amount of personal data, everything from financial records to sensitive health information and keeping that data safe has become essential for maintaining a good reputation and public confidence.

Now, as 2025 is around the corner, it’s clearer than ever that councils can’t afford to overlook cybersecurity. It’s not just about ticking boxes for legal compliance; it’s about ensuring councils can continue to serve their communities in a safe, secure and reliable way.

Let’s dive into why cybersecurity matters so much for councils and how protecting data goes hand-in-hand with earning and keeping the public’s trust in our increasingly digital world.

The rising threat: Why are councils being targeted?

If you think councils wouldn’t be top targets for cybercriminals, think again. The reality is, hackers and cyber attackers are always on the lookout for large pools of personal data and councils hold plenty of it. Whether it’s an attempt to steal sensitive information, cause disruption or even lock down systems for ransom, cybercriminals see local government bodies as easy pickings.

Take the recent case where the personal information of serving UK military personnel was compromised in a data breach. This news highlights how even the most sensitive data is vulnerable in today’s interconnected systems. Councils are no exception and need to be prepared for the same level of risk.

It’s been going on for a while too. Back in 2020, councils were already being hit with thousands of cyberattack attempts every day. Fast forward to 2025, and the tactics used by these attackers have only gotten more sophisticated. What makes it worse is that many councils are working with tight budgets and outdated IT systems, which makes them particularly vulnerable.

Additionally, half of UK businesses reported a cyber incident or data breach in the past 12 months, according to the UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2024. This statistic underscores the growing threat landscape and councils must recognise they are part of the same picture.

As a report from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) highlighted: “The government remains an attractive target for a broad range of cyber criminals, with approximately 40% of the 777 incidents managed by the NCSC between September 2020 and August 2021 affecting the public sector.”

What happens when a data breach occurs?

A data breach doesn’t just impact the IT department, it ripples out across all areas of council services. The effects can be long-lasting and wide-ranging. Here’s a closer look at some of the potential fallout:

  • Service disruptions: Cyberattacks can bring key services like waste collection, social care and revenue management to a grinding halt. When those systems go offline, residents are the ones left in the lurch, often for extended periods.
  • Financial penalties: If a council is found to have mishandled data or failed to adequately protect it, the consequences can be severe. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) can slap councils with fines as high as £17.5 million, or 4% of their turnover, for breaching GDPR rules. Beyond fines, there are also recovery costs—like fixing systems, legal fees and investigations.
  • Loss of public trust: One of the most damaging outcomes of a data breach is losing the trust of the public. People expect their local councils to safeguard their personal data and if that trust is broken, it can take years to rebuild. Trust is what allows councils to do their jobs effectively, so losing it can be devastating.
  • Data privacy violations: Councils are custodians of deeply personal information, including health records, tax details and social care data. If a breach happens, it can have serious repercussions for the people involved and councils could face legal action for failing to protect it. The UK government is currently considering striking back against Russian hackers who compromised the records of 300 million NHS patient interactions, including sensitive medical test results. This is a stark reminder of what’s at stake when personal information falls into the wrong hands.

The legal side: Councils’ obligations around data protection

Councils in the UK aren’t just encouraged to protect personal data, they’re legally required to. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 make it clear that councils must put proper security measures in place, report any breaches within 72 hours and handle data responsibly.

Failing to meet these requirements can result in stiff penalties, but beyond that, it’s about doing the right thing. Councils have a duty to protect the data of the citizens they serve and this responsibility should be taken seriously at every level of local government.

Strengthening cybersecurity: What councils can do?

So, what can councils do to better protect themselves from these ever-evolving threats? Here are some best practices that can help councils safeguard their data and, just as importantly, maintain the trust of the people they serve:

  • Regular security audits: Councils should carry out regular security checks to identify any weaknesses in their systems. By regularly reviewing and updating their cybersecurity practices, they can stay ahead of potential threats.
  • Staff training: Let’s face it, human error is one of the leading causes of data breaches. Councils should invest in proper cybersecurity training for all employees to ensure everyone understands the basics—things like avoiding phishing scams, using strong passwords and handling data securely.
  • Advanced threat detection tools: Councils need to have technology in place that can detect threats in real-time. This helps them respond to potential breaches quickly, minimising damage.
  • Data encryption: Encryption is a must. Even if hackers manage to break into a system, encrypted data will be unreadable to them, adding a vital layer of security.
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Councils should implement MFA across their systems. It adds an extra layer of protection, requiring users to verify their identity with more than just a password.
  • Incident response plans: Every council should have a plan for what to do in the event of a breach. This ensures there’s a clear process for containing the damage and notifying the right people, both within the organisation and among the public.
  • Collaborating with the NCSC: The NCSC offers great resources for improving cybersecurity. Councils can benefit by working closely with the NCSC and participating in initiatives like Cyber Essentials.

Public trust hinges on cybersecurity

In today’s digital world, people expect their local councils to keep their personal data safe and their services running smoothly. If a council fails to meet these expectations, it can seriously undermine the public’s faith in its ability to govern.

By prioritising cybersecurity, councils are doing more than just protecting data—they’re showing their commitment to the communities they serve. It’s about being transparent, trustworthy and capable in the digital age.

At the same time, cybersecurity should be woven into a council’s broader digital strategy. As councils continue to innovate and digitise their services, they need to ensure that these advancements don’t come at the cost of security. Being proactive about cybersecurity will be key to long-term success.

Final thoughts

There’s no getting around it: in 2025, cybersecurity is an absolute must for local councils. The risk of cyberattacks is only going to increase and with councils handling such sensitive data, protecting it has to be a top priority.

By adopting best practices, staying compliant with data protection laws and making cybersecurity an ongoing focus, councils can avoid the worst-case scenarios—like service disruptions, financial penalties and loss of trust. Most importantly, they can continue to serve their communities with the confidence that they are keeping residents’ data safe and secure.

When it comes down to it, investing in cybersecurity now is about protecting the future of local government. Public trust isn’t easily won, but by making cybersecurity a core part of their strategy, councils can ensure that trust remains intact for years to come.

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