Adult Social Care Glossary, v 0.6

'Cybersecurity' is defined as protection against criminal or unauthorised use of electronic data held by an organisation and encompasses the security measures and processes that are involved in doing this. The Data Security Protection Toolkit (DSPT) is an online self-assessment tool which helps care providers to evaluate and improve their cybersecurity/data security. The DSPT sets out the standards required by social care providers to protect people's information from the risk of breach or cyberattack (also known as hacking). DSPT completion is supported by the Better Security, Better Care programme which helps care providers to evaluate and improve their cybersecurity/data security with resources and support.

Its core function is to protect the devices we all use (smartphones, laptops, tablets and computers), and the services we access - both online and at work - from theft or damage. It is also about preventing unauthorised access to the vast amounts of personal information we store on these devices, and online. This is important for ensuring the quality and safety of care and support.