Ransomware Response for Financial Services
FCA obligations. Client assets. PCI DSS. Financial services firms face some of the most complex regulatory requirements of any sector during a cyber incident.
Why Financial Services Is Targeted
Financial services firms hold exactly what threat actors want: money, financial data, and personal information worth significant value on criminal markets. Client account data, transaction records, payment card information, and investment portfolios are all high-value targets.
The sector faces a double threat: direct financial theft through BEC and account takeover, and data extortion through ransomware. Threat actors know that financial firms face severe regulatory consequences from data breaches, which increases payment pressure.
In 2025–2026, UK financial services firms have been targeted by groups including ALPHV/BlackCat, LockBit, and Clop. The MOVEit supply chain attack demonstrated how third-party vulnerabilities can cascade across the financial sector.
Key Regulatory Obligations
- FCA notification — FCA-regulated firms must notify the FCA of material cyber incidents promptly. The FCA's operational resilience framework sets expectations for incident response
- ICO notification (72 hours) — UK GDPR applies alongside FCA requirements. Dual notification is typically required for incidents involving personal data
- PCI DSS — If payment card data is involved, PCI DSS breach notification and forensic investigation (PFI) requirements apply
- PRA notification — Prudentially regulated firms must also notify the PRA of incidents that could affect their safety and soundness
- Client notification — FCA Principles for Businesses (Principle 7 — communications) and GDPR Article 34 may both require client notification
- DORA compliance — The Digital Operational Resilience Act introduces additional ICT incident reporting requirements for firms operating in or with the EU
How We Help
Incident Response
Full-lifecycle IR with financial services regulatory experience and evidence standards.
Learn more →Ransomware Negotiations
Sanctions-compliant negotiation with OFAC/OFSI screening — essential for regulated firms.
Learn more →Cyber Insurance Support
Documentation and evidence packages for insurance claims and regulatory submissions.
Learn more →Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have experience with FCA-regulated firms?
Yes. We understand FCA notification requirements, operational resilience expectations, and the specific evidence standards required for regulatory submissions. We can coordinate directly with your compliance team and external counsel.
What about PCI DSS forensic investigation requirements?
If payment card data is involved, a PCI Forensic Investigation may be required. We can conduct the investigation and coordinate with your acquirer and payment card brands on notification and remediation requirements.
Can you help us meet DORA requirements?
Yes. For firms with EU exposure, we understand the Digital Operational Resilience Act's ICT incident reporting requirements and can help you meet the prescribed notification timelines and content requirements.