MoJ gets Detica to batten down data

The Ministry of Justice has signed a two-year cyber security deal with BAE Systems Detica.

Under the deal, Detica will provide security support and advice on the Ministry’s IT architecture, security policy, compliance and risk management.

The deal also includes an additional option to use Detica for penetration testing and forensics if either should be deemed necessary.

Previously, departments within the Ministry have hired security consultants on an ad hoc basis.

The arrangement with Detica should help ensure the smooth running of the Ministry’s systems, said Bob Nicholls, head of information assurance at the MoJ.

“We anticipate that it will deliver real benefits to the MoJ, both in terms of security and cost efficiency,” he added.

The MoJ’s IT systems were criticised last year by the National Audit Office, as multiple data systems were affecting its ability to monitor spending.

The MoJ is acutely aware of the importance of IT assurance as it has been the victim of embarrassing data leaks. In 2008, the prison service said that one of its IT contractors had lost a hard drive containing the details of about 5,000 prison officers and support staff.