In a move to bolster collective responses against cyber-threats, lawmakers and national governments have endorsed measures to establish an EU-wide infrastructure comprising cyber hubs across member states. These hubs are tasked with sharing information, detecting, and responding to major cyber incidents, aligning with the objectives outlined in the Cyber Solidarity Act proposed by the European Commission in April 2023.
Call for Increased Funding and Support
During negotiations, lawmakers advocated for additional funding for the EU Cybersecurity Reserve, aimed at assisting countries and EU institutions in managing large-scale cyber incidents effectively. EU industry commissioner Thierry Breton emphasized the urgent need to expedite detection processes for sophisticated attacks, highlighting the importance of leveraging artificial intelligence technologies to scan networks and promptly identify potential threats.
Building a European Cyber Shield
The proposed infrastructure seeks to establish a common European advanced detection mechanism, forming a formidable European cyber shield against evolving cyber threats. These efforts complement existing cybersecurity measures, including the Network Information Systems (NIS2) directive, which mandates critical sector companies to report major incidents to national authorities.
Enhancing Certification Schemes
Negotiators also agreed to amend the EU’s Cyber Security Act (CSA) to introduce European certification schemes for managed security services, such as security audits. These schemes aim to elevate the quality standards of these services and mitigate fragmentation within the EU. The European Commission may task the EU’s Cybersecurity Agency, ENISA, with developing voluntary certification schemes under the CSA.
Support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
The agreement acknowledges the importance of supporting SMEs in complying with the new regulations, offering financial and technical assistance, clearer definitions of managed security services, and addressing existing skill gaps. These provisions aim to facilitate SMEs’ adaptation to the evolving cybersecurity landscape and ensure their effective participation in cyber resilience efforts.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Verdict
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