UK Government Urges Citizens to Stockpile Emergency Food and Water Over Russian Cyber-Attack Fears

According to Darren Jones, UK Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, the British government announced today (July 16) a national public awareness campaign to prepare households for potential emergencies, including cyber-attacks from Russia. Downing Street plans to launch the initiative later this year following Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's warning that intelligence agencies believe a Russian attack could occur within four years.

The campaign will advise citizens to stockpile long-life foods such as oats, sardines, tinned beans and crisps, along with bottled water for drinking and washing. The public information drive will also include updated guidance for schools and colleges on emergency preparedness. Additionally, the government will conduct a "hybrid attack" defense exercise next year, with civil servants planning crisis response scenarios from within government offices.