The European Union looks at cybersecurity as an important area they need to look on. So, let’s take a look at how the EU cybersecurity is now.
Read on the know more about what their cyber strategies and policies are.
EU Cybersecurity
The European Union knows that securing its network as well as information systems is important.
This is because it safeguards their communication data. And also, it keeps the online society and economy running in a seamless manner.
So, that’s why they are working on making and promoting cyber resilience. As the cyber threat is not limited within a country’s border.
It can cross from country to country within the Union and can affect it as a whole. As a result, they are pointing out the need for each country to have a solid cybersecurity department.
Then, this department will work with its counterparts in other countries in the EU. They will share important information and give heads up to possible threats.
What are their strategies?
They will focus on areas that will give support to the Member States in creating security. This is to ensure cybersecurity for all those living within the EU borders. This is based on the EU Security Union Strategy for the year 2020 until 2025.
Also, they plan to finish the review of the Network and Information Systems Directive. The target is by the end of 2020.
Then, they also plan to propose ideas for joint cyber units among them. And, they will make a new cybersecurity strategy.
Additionally, they all had an agreement to which every country has already adopted. It’s the Network and Information Systems Directive. Or more commonly know as NIS Directive.
What is this directive about?
NIS Directive
The NIS Directive aims to give legal measures to boost cybersecurity in all EU.
On July 6, 2016, this directive is adopted by the European Parliament. Then, it began to be implemented in August of the same year.
All the members of the EU needed to add the Directive into their national laws. And the deadline was until the 9th of May 2018, 2 years after it was created.
Then, this Directive aims to ensure these areas:
- EU countries’ cybersecurity preparedness
- requiring countries to be properly equipped
- countries create their Computer Security Incident Response Team or CSIRT Network
- that all members cooperate with their efforts thru the Cooperation Group
- security across different important sectors (e.g. energy, healthcare, banking, etc.)
- security among important digital service providers (e.g. search engines, online marketplaces, etc.)
- notify of national-level cybersecurity risks
Aside from this Directive, the EU has also seen the birth of the Cybersecurity Act. Thus solidifying the role or ENISA. What is this?
Cybersecurity Act and ENISA
The Cybersecurity Act started to get imposed in June 2019. Because of this, ENISA has a solid and permanent role in the Union’s cybersecurity efforts.
So what is ENISA? It’s the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security.
This is an established agency that aims to provide support to all EU members. This includes institutions and businesses in important areas.
Also, it’s the agency responsible for ensuring that the NIS is implemented.
