The Government has stepped up efforts to protect businesses against cyber-security threats, by investing in secure hardware design.

While most businesses are reliant on digital technology and online services, the Government claims more than 40% have experienced a cyber-security breach or attack in the last 12 months.

Businesses are investing increasing amounts into cyber security as a result, costing between 20% and 40% of their entire IT spend in some cases.

To help improve security, the Government has announced it will invest up to £70 million in research into the design and development of hardware.

The aim of the investment is to build security into the design of products, making them safer for businesses to use from the outset.

Greg Clark, Business Secretary, said:

"This could be a real step-change in computer and online security, better protecting businesses, services and consumers from cyber-attacks resulting in benefits for consumers and the economy.

"‘Designing in' security measures into the hardware's fabric will not only protect our businesses and consumers but ultimately cut the growing cyber-security costs to businesses."

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