In an era where cyber threats loom larger than ever, the UK government is taking proactive steps to ensure its citizens are prepared for the unexpected. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting has launched a ‘be ready’ campaign, urging households to stockpile food and water in anticipation of potential cyber attacks and service disruptions. The move comes as part of a broader effort to bolster national resilience against increasingly sophisticated digital threats.
The campaign, which advises households to have enough essential supplies to last three days, is a response to the growing risks posed by cyber attacks. On October 22, 2026, 32 government services were forced offline due to a cybersecurity issue, underscoring the vulnerability of critical infrastructure. Streeting emphasized the need for both alertness and calm, stating, ‘We want people to be alert but not alarmed.’ His message is clear: while the threat is real, panic is not the answer.
The Defence Secretary highlighted the evolving nature of cyber threats, which have become more sophisticated and frequent. From ransomware attacks on hospitals to disruptions in energy supplies, the potential impact on everyday life is significant. By encouraging households to prepare, the government aims to minimize the chaos that could ensue if essential services are compromised. Streeting’s call to action extends beyond individuals to businesses, asking, ‘Are they prepared, are they ready, and do they know how they will respond in the event of everyday challenges that might manifest themselves?’
His stance has garnered support from figures like Tom Tugendhat, who described the call to stockpile as ‘a perfectly reasonable thing to ask people.
Streeting urges public be ‘alert not alarmed’ amid call to stock up for a crisis https://t.co/jCQyz1Dzpn https://t.co/mD0qoJ2oke
While some might view the campaign as alarmist, Streeting has been careful to strike a balanced tone. He defended the initiative, reiterating that preparedness is a practical measure rather than a cause for panic. His stance has garnered support from figures like Tom Tugendhat, who described the call to stockpile as ‘a perfectly reasonable thing to ask people.’ Tugendhat’s endorsement underscores the campaign’s focus on pragmatism over fear-mongering.
The ‘be ready’ campaign provides practical guidance on how households can prepare for disruptions. This includes stocking up on non-perishable food, water, and other essentials like medications. The government’s advice is not just about physical supplies but also about mental readiness—knowing how to respond when services like banking, transportation, or communication are temporarily unavailable. The campaign’s website offers detailed checklists and resources to help families and businesses plan ahead.
Brits warned to 'be ready' for national crisis: Government campaign urges storing food and water for three days, cash in case electronic system collapses, and a wind-up radio https://t.co/V1v7F5kaMv
The campaign is part of a wider government strategy to enhance cybersecurity and national resilience. With cyber threats becoming a key focus of national security, the UK is investing in both defensive measures and public awareness. Streeting’s emphasis on preparedness reflects a recognition that while governments and businesses play a critical role, individual readiness is equally important in mitigating the impact of potential crises.
As of now, the ‘be ready’ campaign continues to roll out, with the government urging citizens to take its advice seriously but without undue alarm. While the threat of cyber attacks remains a pressing concern, the campaign represents a proactive step toward ensuring that the UK is as prepared as possible for whatever challenges may lie ahead. Streeting’s message of alertness without alarm serves as a guiding principle for a nation navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape.