Common vulnerabilities
DDoS attacks
disrupting online portals for tax, housing, or benefits
Ransomware
taking down internal systems (e.g. records, planning, payroll)
Phishing
and credential compromise targeting council officers
Third-party breaches
involving vendors managing public service platforms
Outdated software
or lack of MFA across departments
Realistic risk scenario
A council’s housing benefits portal is disabled by a coordinated DDoS attack, cutting off access for thousands of residents. Days later, ransomware spreads through the network, encrypting shared files and preventing access to key operational systems. A subsequent investigation reveals an attacker had compromised an employee’s credentials via phishing weeks earlier. Public services are disrupted, staff are unable to process payments, and the incident attracts media attention. There are early signs that personal data may have been accessed.
How Cowbell can help
Cowbell’s 24/7 UK-based claims team initiates triage, quickly deploying breach counsel and digital forensic experts from our approved panel. Prioritisation is given to restoring public services and evaluating any data access or exfiltration.
Regulatory & Legal Support:
- Legal advice regarding ICO reporting obligations
- Drafting support for public-facing disclosures
- Guidance on managing internal investigations and FOI requests
- Identifying the root cause and entry point
- Containing the spread
- Recovering impacted systems and review backups
- Analysing evidence trails to support reporting and regulatory response
Public Communication & Reputation Support:
Cowbell connects the council with experienced PR specialists to handle media interest, stakeholder updates, and reassure citizens. Messaging is tailored to align with local governance expectations and transparency standards.
Financial Coverage & Extra Expenses:
- Emergency IT support and overtime staffing
- Temporary systems or communications platforms
- Incident response vendor costs
- Any covered business interruption or ransom-related response costs
Why a cyber policy with Cowbell matters for public sector bodies
Fast and coordinated response
Essential for minimising service disruption and public backlash
Panel specialists with public sector experience
Legal, forensic, and comms vendors familiar with regulatory environments
Cost containment
We help manage expenses with pre-agreed vendor rates and incident oversight
Policy coverage
Includes business interruption, system recovery, liability, notification, and extortion where applicable
Trust & compliance
Supports transparent governance and protects public trust
We're not just here during a claim
Do you have questions about the claims experience, coverages, scenarios, or our pre- and post-claim services?
