The National Security Strategy categorised cyber attacks as a Tier One threat to our national security, alongside international terrorism. The threat to our national security from cyber attacks is real and growing. Terrorists, rogue states and cyber criminals are among those targeting computer systems in the UK.

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The internet-related market in the UK is now estimated to be worth £82 billion a year. But with greater openness, interconnection and dependency comes greater vulnerability.

The recognition that criminals can use techniques to cover their online tracks and to spoof their identities and locations led to a decision within the University that the study of cyberstalking merited a dedicated approach within the realm of computer science and informatics.

81% of large corporations and 60% of small businesses reported a cyber breach in 2013. On average more than 33,000 malicious emails are blocked at the Gateway to the Government Secure Intranet (GSI) every month. These are likely to contain - or link to - sophisticated malware. A far greater number of malicious, but less sophisticated emails and spam are blocked each month.

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University of Bedfordshire researchers have also collaborated with the Serious and Organised Crime Agency on work into information security breaches – also known as cybercrime.

Our research has highlighted that there are many areas, which are vulnerable to this type of activity due to organisations neglecting certain risk areas.

The high percentage of insecure web applications and malware demonstrates a widespread lack of understanding about these subjects and highlights the need to educate software developers about preventative measures.

The National Centre for Cyberstalking Research at the University of Bedfordshire aims to understand, counter and legislate for cyberstalking.  

Helping crime agencies and governments understand and tackle cyberstalking

Our Computing research has helped national and regional governments to understand and combat cyberstalking. Using our extensive knowledge in cyber security we have provided assistance with decisions, plans and training programmes for the UK government and official bodies including the ACPO stalking working party.

This work on cyberstalking and online risk has led to nationally delivered CPD courses for teachers, social care professionals and the public as well as a change in the UK law.

Encouraging public debate

Our research has attracted national and international media attention, which in turn has resulted in public debates on the nature and danger of cyber security as well as potential protection options for victims.