Fostering a Culture of Commitment to Cyber Security

An Urgent Reminder to University Staff

Dear colleagues,

The Digital Services department would like to remind you about the need for us to remain resolute in protecting ourselves and the University from cyber threats. The news of recent cyber incidents affecting major institutions like Marks and Spencer, the Co-op, and Harrods, as well as some prominent UK universities, means that it is crucial that we all stay alert and committed to protecting our digital environment.

Why is Cybersecurity Important?
In our highly interconnected world, maintaining robust cybersecurity isn’t just the job of the Digital Services team; it’s everyone’s responsibility. Cyber-attacks can cause major disruptions, lead to data breaches, compromise sensitive information and potentially lead to regulatory fines. This impacts both our university’s reputation as well as the personal security of our staff and students.

Recent Incidents
The cyber-attacks of April 2025 on Marks and Spencer, the Co-op, and Harrods have shown how vulnerable organisations can be. These events remind us that no one is immune to cyber threats. Moreover, some of our colleagues, who are customers of these organisations, might have received emails related to these ongoing cyber incidents and include the possibility that some of their personal information may have been stolen by malicious Threat Actors, often referred to as computer hackers.

Promoting a Culture of Commitment
It’s important to not become so absorbed in our work-related deliverables and deadlines that we forget the importance of being cyber-secure.

We must ensure that everyone participates in the University’s cybersecurity training and awareness programmes so that we remain informed about the latest threats and cybersecurity best practices. Adhering to established cybersecurity principles such as using strong passwords, regularly updating software, and securely handling sensitive information is essential. If you see anything suspicious, please do not hesitate to report it to our Digital Services team via the DS Service Desk. More than ever before, it is crucial that we continue to work together and stay committed to these practices to strengthen our defences and protect the University’s staff and students.

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility that requires steadfast dedication from each of us. By fostering a culture of vigilance and responsibility, we can protect our university and ensure a safe digital environment for all stakeholders. Let us remain proactive and engaged in our cybersecurity practices, learn from recent incidents, and continuously bolster our cyber defences.

Sincerely
Dwayne Cassell – Digital Security Manager, University of Lincoln

Story submitted by Alex Dunn
aldunn@lincoln.ac.uk