Cyber Brief: ICO Encryption, Ransomware and Linux Alert

Today’s cybersecurity headlines highlight both regulatory and technical priorities: updated UK encryption guidance, an evolving ransomware landscape across Europe, and a critical Linux kernel flaw now being exploited in the wild. For UK SMEs and regulated organisations, these stories emphasise practical action - secure data, test resilience, and patch promptly.

ICO releases updated encryption guidance for UK organisations

The UK Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has issued refreshed guidance on encryption, introducing a practical “must / should / could” framework. This structure clarifies which controls are legally required, which are strongly advised, and which are optional but recommended. The update reinforces encryption as an expected safeguard rather than a discretionary one, particularly for personal and regulated data. The ICO notes that strong encryption not only protects information but can also mitigate enforcement penalties when breaches occur.

For UK businesses, this sets a clearer baseline for compliance: encrypt data both at rest and in transit, document how keys are managed, and ensure staff understand the difference between required and desirable measures. SMEs handling client information or financial data should align their practices with the new guidance now to avoid future scrutiny and strengthen customer trust.

Why it matters: Encryption is fast becoming a default expectation for all organisations, not just a best-practice measure. Ensuring data is encrypted and key management documented can reduce regulatory risk and enhance credibility.
Source: Information Commissioner’s Office

Ransomware attacks in Europe rise sharply, says CrowdStrike report

CrowdStrike’s 2025 European Threat Landscape Report reveals that Europe now accounts for almost 22 percent of global ransomware and data-extortion victims. The study shows that attackers have streamlined operations - the average campaign, from initial access to encryption, now completes in roughly 24 hours. Manufacturing, legal, and healthcare sectors remain key targets due to complex supply chains and sensitive information.

For UK SMEs and regulated firms, this finding reinforces the need to detect incidents earlier and respond faster. Even a small delay in recognising suspicious activity can mean the difference between containment and full network compromise. Organisations should focus on multi-layered detection, secure offline backups, and rehearsed response playbooks that assume a “24-hour breach window.” Regular threat-hunting and supplier-risk reviews will help shorten detection times and limit potential business disruption.

Why it matters: Ransomware speed and reach are increasing. The key to resilience lies in faster detection, tested response plans, and verified backups rather than reactive firefighting.
Source: CrowdStrike

CISA warns of active exploitation of Linux kernel vulnerability

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an alert on a local privilege-escalation flaw in the Linux kernel (CVE-2024-1086) that is now under active exploitation. The issue affects the netfilter / nf_tables component and allows attackers with limited access to gain full administrative control. Exploitation has been observed in targeted campaigns, and major Linux distributions have released patches.

For UK organisations running Linux servers - whether on-premises or in cloud environments — this vulnerability presents a clear and present risk. Immediate patching is essential, especially for externally exposed systems. Where patching cannot occur right away, CISA recommends isolating vulnerable hosts, disabling unneeded services, and restricting shell access. Routine scanning and configuration management can reduce similar risks going forward.

Why it matters: Many business systems depend on Linux, and a single privilege-escalation exploit can turn a low-severity intrusion into a full-scale compromise. Prioritising kernel updates and enforcing least-privilege access will prevent attackers from gaining control.
Source: Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency

🔍 Today’s Key Actions

1. Review encryption controls in line with the ICO’s new guidance and document your “must, should, could” actions.
2. Rehearse your 24-hour incident-response plan: test detection, containment, and recovery processes.
3. Patch or isolate any Linux systems running kernel versions below 6.1.77.
4. Verify that backups are offline, current, and periodically tested for restore capability.
5. Update supplier-risk registers to reflect ransomware and open-source software dependencies.

💬 Secarma Insight

Today’s stories all point to one theme - control what you can before incidents occur. From encryption compliance to rapid ransomware response and kernel patching, proactive action shortens recovery time and builds resilience. Secarma’s ACT Framework - Advise, Certify, Test - helps organisations convert alerts into measurable security improvement.
Get in touch with us to prioritise your next steps and strengthen your security posture.