British businesses will benefit from a world-first cyber security standard which will protect AI systems from cyber-attacks, securing the digital economy.

Companies developing AI – from consumer apps to systems underpinning public services – will be able to better protect themselves from growing cyber security threats under steps set out by the UK government.

The steps announced today under a new Code of Practice will give businesses and public services the confidence they need to harness AI’s transformative potential safely – supporting the government’s Plan for Change as the technology drives forward improvements to public services, turbocharges productivity, and drives growth across the economy.

With cyber attacks or breaches affecting half of businesses in the last 12 months, safeguarding AI systems is crucial as adoption accelerates across the economy. The world leading Code of Practice pioneered by the UK, equips organisations with the tools they need to thrive in the age of AI. From securing AI systems against hacking and sabotage, to ensuring they are developed and deployed in a secure way, the Code will help developers build secure, innovative AI products that drive growth and fuel the Plan for Change.

It sets out how organisations using AI can protect themselves from a range of cyber threats such as AI attacks and system failures. This can include steps such as implementing cyber security training programmes which are focused on AI vulnerabilities, developing recovery plans following potential cyber incidents, and carrying out robust risk assessments.

The voluntary Code of Practice will form the basis of a new global standard for secure AI through the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) – a major step which cements the UK’s position as a world leader in safe innovation. With the UK AI sector generating £14.2 billion in revenue last year, these standards will help maintain growth while protecting critical infrastructure – building on the work of the AI Opportunities Action Plan.