Cybersecurity and compliance are quickly moving up the agenda for UK businesses. What used to be considered “back-office IT” is now firmly a board-level priority. In fact, a recent TechRadar Pro report found that 72% of UK businesses — and nearly every large organisation — now rank cybersecurity among their top concerns.
This growing attention isn’t just about technology. It’s about resilience, reputation, and regulatory pressure.
Regulation Tightens
The UK government recently updated its cybersecurity code, calling on directors to take more responsibility for digital risk. Weekly cyberattacks from hostile groups have only added urgency, showing that security can’t be left solely to IT teams.
Meanwhile, legislation is on the way. The Cyber Security and Resilience Bill will expand requirements for firms like data centres and managed service providers. It will also make ransomware reporting mandatory — raising the bar for transparency and accountability.
Penalties Are Growing Too
It’s not just new rules — enforcement is getting tougher. The cumulative total of GDPR fines has climbed to nearly €6 billion, according to DLA Piper’s survey. Major names have been hit hard, but regulators are also looking more closely at smaller firms handling sensitive data.
And with PCI DSS 4.0.1 now live as of April 2025, businesses that process card payments face strict requirements. Non-compliance can mean fines, higher processing fees, and even losing the ability to take payments (ISM Online).
The Local Picture: Manchester Businesses at Risk
Manchester’s economy is thriving — from fintech and digital media to manufacturing and logistics — but many SMEs lack dedicated IT leadership. That leaves them exposed to compliance gaps, whether in ISO 27001 certification, GDPR readiness, or PCI DSS obligations.
Hiring an ISO 27001 consultant in Manchester is often the most practical way forward. Instead of struggling to interpret regulations, local businesses can access experienced guidance to build security into their operations and demonstrate compliance to clients, partners, and regulators.
How North Signal Helps
At North Signal, we make compliance practical:
1. ISO 27001 consulting to design and implement an effective ISMS
2. GDPR advisory to ensure lawful handling of personal data
3. PCI DSS support to secure payment systems and reduce risk
4. Cybersecurity strategy that goes beyond tick-box compliance to real resilience
Final Word
With fines escalating and new regulations on the horizon, the cost of inaction is rising. But compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right partner, Manchester businesses can turn regulatory pressure into a foundation for growth and trust.
North Signal 