UK Cyber Security and Resilience Bill: What digital service providers need to know

On April 1, 2025, the UK Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT) released the Policy Statement of Intent for the upcoming Cyber Security and Resilience Bill. This landmark legislation is set to introduce wide-ranging changes that will strengthen the UK’s cyber defences, enhance resilience, and promote economic growth through improved security standards.

At Emproof, we are closely tracking developments like these. Here’s what you need to know about the key changes ahead.

Expanded scope: Managed service providers in focus

One of the most significant updates is the expanded scope of regulation to include Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Over 900 additional MSPs are expected to come under this framework. Businesses providing IT management, monitoring, and infrastructure support will need to meet stricter security compliance obligations.

This move reflects the increasing recognition that third-party providers play a critical role in the security posture of organisations across the economy.

Strengthening supply chain security and critical suppliers

The Bill places greater emphasis on supply chain security. Essential service operators and digital service providers will face tighter security requirements. A new category, Critical Suppliers, will be introduced, targeting high-impact suppliers with enhanced security and reporting standards.

This development underlines the growing focus on mitigating risks that happen that are beyond an organisation’s direct control – a recurring theme in modern cybersecurity strategies.

Enhanced oversight and reporting requirements

The Bill formalises the role of the National Cyber Security Centre’s (NCSC) Cyber Assessment Framework, making it a standard tool for assessing cybersecurity practices.

In parallel, incident reporting obligations will be strengthened, and regulators such as the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) will gain increased powers to collect information and assess cyber risks across sectors more effectively.

New fee structures for regulatory activities

A new framework for regulatory fees is also on the horizon. Regulators will be able to recover costs associated with compliance oversight through flexible, adaptive fee structures. DSIT has indicated that consultations will be held to finalise how fees will be determined and raised, aiming for a model that balances effectiveness with fairness.

What’s next?

The Policy Statement suggests that data centres could soon be classified as critical national infrastructure (CNI), making them subject to regulatory oversight. Given their pivotal role in the UK’s digital economy, this potential expansion is closely watched.

The Bill also signals a shift towards sector-specific cybersecurity regulations. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, the UK is moving toward flexible, risk-based models tailored to the needs of different industries.

Emproof’s takeaway

The Cyber Security and Resilience Bill represents a significant evolution in the UK’s approach to cybersecurity regulation. Organisations that provide digital services, manage critical IT infrastructure, or rely on complex supply chains must start preparing for stricter requirements now.

At Emproof, we are committed to helping businesses adapt to these changes – with lightweight, embedded cybersecurity solutions designed for modern connected systems.