Cyber UK 2026 to begin in Glasgow amid growing cyber threats

Experts are warning that cyber threats are growing more “unpredictable and harder to defend against”.

This escalation is reportedly being fuelled by global tensions, with cybercrime experts highlighting the influence of political uncertainty.

The warning comes as Cyber UK 2026 begins in Glasgow, drawing more than 2500 industry leaders, policymakers, and cybersecurity specialists to the SEC from April 21 to 23.

Lynne Capie, founder of cybersecurity consultancy Soteria, said: “Cyber threats are no longer operating in isolation.

“They are increasingly shaped by global events, political instability, and shifting alliances – making the landscape far more dynamic and difficult to manage.”

Recent incidents have underscored the seriousness of the threat.

A major international law firm recently confirmed a data breach involving client information, while companies including Marks & Spencer and Jaguar Land Rover faced disruption due to cyber incidents.

Experts warn that the lines between state-backed activity, organised cybercrime, and opportunistic attacks are becoming more and more blurred, leading to a more unpredictable threat landscape.

Capie said: “Cyber security is no longer just an IT issue – it’s a core business risk.

“The organisations that will cope best are those that are prepared not just to prevent attacks, but to respond and recover effectively when they happen.”

New research involving Imperial College London and the IESEG School of Management is examining how organisations communicate during cyber incidents.

Early findings suggest that delays in communication can significantly increase both reputational and operational damage.

These findings will be discussed at a fringe session hosted by Soteria during the event.

First published in Glasgow Times. Image credit Glasgow Times.