Hannigan, credited with developing the UK’s first Cyber Security Strategy and setting up the National Cyber Security Centre, will work closely with Hiscox and its specialist cyber division to provide market intelligence, staff training and inform the development of new and existing cyber products.
Mr Hannigan’s new role will include advising the UK business on emerging threats and cutting-edge criminal techniques that could impact customers both now and in the future, as well as helping to educate staff and customers about the importance of managing cyber risk.
Robert Hannigan, Special Advisor at Hiscox UK and Ireland said: “The risks that cyber criminals pose, both to businesses and individuals in the UK are significant and sophisticated. Cyber attacks are intrusive, costly and disruptive, which is why businesses and the public must be proactive in establishing a defence against them. In addition, the organisations that protect us – from insurers and software providers to UK regulators – must also evolve their understanding and defence against cyber crime, and the sharing of knowledge through partnerships like this is central to that. Hiscox leads the field in cyber insurance and I'm delighted to be working with such an expert and innovative team."
Steve Langan, Chief Executive, Hiscox Insurance, commented: “There are few experts better-placed to advise on cyber risk than Mr Hannigan and we are hugely excited to have him on-board. Our aim is not just to protect customers against the impact of cyber crime, but to play a constructive role in helping them better manage and understand the evolving risks they face. As a specialist insurer with a focus on cyber security, it’s vital that we stay ahead of the curve, and the deep expertise and experience Mr Hannigan brings to the business will play an key part in ensuring this.”
Hiscox began writing cyber insurance in the late 1990’s and currently provides Cyber and Data Risks cover to commercial clients as well as optional cyber cover on selected home insurance policies. With cyber being a key strategic priority for the business, Mr Hannigan will work alongside a growing team of internal specialists to further accelerate the development of its cyber proposition.
The insurer’s latest Cyber Readiness Report, highlights the impact of cyber crime on small businesses in the UK, with almost half (45%) of firms falling victim to a cyber-attack in the past 12 months. To help raise awareness of cyber crime amongst this audience, the insurer’s latest radio campaign employs the same techniques used by cyber criminals to create an advert, utilising voice–cloning technology to clone its brand voice and an artificial intelligence program to write a script.
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