What is RISQS and Why It Matters for Railway Cybersecurity
- Giovanni Setyawan
- Aug 5
- 2 min read
The railway industry is going through a rapid digital transformation. From connected trains to signalling systems powered by software and networks, cybersecurity in rail is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity. Just like our CEO said that basically what’s online can be hacked. But how do rail operators ensure they’re working with trusted, qualified, and compliant suppliers? This is where RISQS comes in. In this blog we'll talk more into what is RISQS and why it matters for railway cybersecurity.
What is RISQS?
RISQS, or the Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme, is the official supplier assurance system used by the UK rail industry. It helps rail organisations identify pre-qualified and trusted suppliers who meet the required safety, quality, and compliance standards.
The RISQS Supplier List is used by key buyers like: Network Rail, Transport for London (TfL), HS2, and many more. In short, if you want to work in the UK rail industry, being part of the RISQS Approved Supplier List is essential.
What Does RISQS Verified Mean?
Being RISQS Verified means your company has passed a rigorous audit or verification process. It proves that you meet industry standards in areas such as:
Health and Safety
Quality Management
Environmental Impact
Technical Competence
Cybersecurity (especially in OT and IT environments).
This accreditation gives buyers confidence that you can deliver your service safely and reliably within the complex and regulated rail environment.
Why Does RISQS Matter for Cybersecurity Suppliers like Complete Cyber?
With the rise of Operational Technology (OT) in the railway sector—like CBTC, SCADA systems, and connected signalling—the risk of cyber threats is growing fast. A compromised OT system could mean delays, safety risks, or even national infrastructure disruption.
That’s why cybersecurity vendors working in rail need to go beyond technical expertise. They need RISQS Accreditation to show they understand:
Rail-specific safety standards
Regulatory and operational frameworks
How to integrate cybersecurity into complex rail environments.
Being listed on the RISQS Rail Platform is a strong signal that your company is rail-ready—technically, operationally, and securely.
Our Role as a RISQS Approved Cybersecurity Supplier
Complete Cyber is proud to announce that we are now a RISQS Verified Supplier, listed and verified under multiple service categories such as:
Complete Cyber Supplier ID: 9975 | ||
RICCL CODE | SERVICE NAME | STATUS |
H.E.10N | Asset Tracking System Service | VERIFIED |
H.E.4.2N | IT Consultancy and Design Service | VERIFIED |
H.E.8.2M | Bespoke Software Manufacture | VERIFIED |
H.J.1N | Security Services Service | VERIFIED |
H.K.10.6N | Engineering R&D Service | VERIFIED |
H.K.2N | Management Consultancy Service | VERIFIED |
We are here to help rail operators and suppliers stay ahead of evolving cyber threats—safely, reliably, and in compliance with UK Rail Standards. Find our official supplier document here.
Final Thoughts
In today’s railway environment, cybersecurity and compliance go hand in hand. As a RISQS Approved Cybersecurity Supplier, we’re proud to help secure the digital backbone of the UK Rail Network.
If you’re a rail operator, system integrator, or contractor looking to enhance your cybersecurity posture, check out the RISQS Approved Supplier List using our Supplier ID: 9975—or contact us directly to see how we can support your next project.
Learn about our work on Railway Operational Technology from real life case studies such as Network Rail, West Midlands Class 196 Train Fleet, NRTMS Romford and Wales.