KPMG UK has emerged as one of the few firms to be granted the distinguished National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) Cyber Incident Exercise (CIE) Assured Provider status. This prestigious recognition highlights KPMG's commitment to offering excellent solutions in cyber incident readiness and response strategies.

Administered by the National Cyber Security Centre, the CIE scheme ensures that certified providers satisfy comprehensive standards for top-quality cyber incident exercises. KPMG's proficiency in formulating and conducting controlled, scenario-based exercises meets the technical standards issued by the NCSC. This aids organisations by providing a secure environment where they can practice, assess, and improve their cyber incident response plans.

Regarding the achievement, Indy Dhami, Cyber Security Partner of KPMG UK, stated: "Our team's dedication, expertise, and commitment to continuous improvement through cyber and operational resilience has been instrumental in achieving this milestone."

Dhami further noted that being an NCSC CIE Assured Service Provider spells out their capacity "to support cross-sector clients, helping them test preparedness and decision-making capabilities whilst navigating the complexities of cyber threats effectively."

Notably, KPMG's new status positively impacts its role as a delivery partner for the NCSC CIE scheme. Rowland Johnson, President of CREST, an information security accreditation and certification body, extolled KPMG for earning the Assured Provider status. According to him, KPMG has already demonstrated excellence in preparing clients for cyber incidents.

Johnson said, "With rising cyber-attacks on enterprises of all types, an effective response is one of the most important parts of building cyber resilience." He reassured organisations desiring to scrutinise their incident response effectiveness that "KPMG will be able to support them."

KPMG's achievement underlines the urgency businesses are placing on bolstering their cyber-attack readiness in a digital world increasingly under threat. It further reinforces the role that professional service providers like KPMG play in advising and supporting businesses in establishing strong cyberspace shields and effective response plans.

This recognition from NCSC adds to KPMG's global portfolio. KPMG LLP, a UK limited liability partnership, operates from 20 offices across the UK, and around 17,000 partners and staff serve its operations. As part of a global organisation, it joins multiple independent professional services firms in 143 countries and territories, providing Audit, Legal, Tax, and Advisory services. An excess of 273,000 partners and employees work in member firms globally.

KPMG UK's attainment of NCSC Cyber Incident Exercise Assured Provider status marks a significant milestone in the firm's commitment to cyber resilience and readiness. With a track record of excellence in assisting clients across sectors, KPMG's recognition underscores the critical importance of effective cyber incident response strategies in today's digital landscape. This achievement not only enhances KPMG's position as a trusted advisor in cybersecurity but also reflects its dedication to continuous improvement and client support in the face of evolving cyber threats.