The European Union’s Network and Information Security Directive (NIS2) will come into effect on the 18th of October 2024. It replaces the original NIS-D directive, which was the first EU-wide cybersecurity legislation, and expands on the scope of its predecessor to enhance the resilience of critical infrastructure in member states against cyber threats.
In our previous article, we explained the importance of the NIS2 directive, talked about the sectors it is set to impact, and discussed the role rules and legislation have in protecting individuals, and public and private entities, from cyber security threats. Now, we delve deeper into the practical aspects of the EU’s new roadmap to navigating the digitalised world in a safer way.
Aiming to provide a comprehensive update to the EU’s cyber security framework, the benefits of implementing the NIS2 directive in your organisation are not just limited to meeting legal requirements. Better risk management and mitigation, along with improved incident response and recovery capabilities - not to mention supply chain security - are all key aspects of a business’s continuity, efficiency and productivity. Companies operating within the EU must understand and comply with these new guidelines to protect themselves and contribute to the broader goal of cybersecurity resilience in Europe; and to avoid being fined for not meeting the requirements.
Understand the scope and requirements. Determine whether your organisation is regulated by NIS2. If it operates within the EU within the 18 sectors specified by the NIS2, and meets the set criteria of size and revenue, you must prepare for the new legislation. Thoroughly read the NIS2 Directive, focusing on the specific requirements applicable to your sector.
Familiarise yourself with local legislation. EU countries must publish local laws and regulations related to the NIS2 before October 18th, 2024. These are the rules you must follow, and they will be based on the EU-wide directive. This may mean that in some countries your business will have to comply with the minimum specified in NIS2, while meeting more strict cybersecurity requirements, specified in local laws, in others.
Conduct an in-depth risk assessment. Take time to review your organisation’s incident response and risk management procedures. Also assess your work methods and company culture to identify any risks to NIS2 compliance. These processes should be reviewed regularly, and not just when new legislation comes into place. Third-party risk management should be an important part of your overall assessment as well - make an inventory of all parties you currently work with, evaluate your relationships and identify any potential vulnerabilities.
Develop incident response procedures. To mitigate any risks discovered during the initial assessment, you should put in place appropriate procedures for detecting, responding to, and recovering from cybersecurity incidents. These plans should be regularly tested and updated to ensure you align with industry best practices, and make sure the effectiveness and adaptability of your incident response procedures are up to par.
Establish Reporting Mechanisms. The NIS2 directive mandates the timely reporting of incidents to national authorities. You should familiarise yourself with the reporting criteria, understand the thresholds for reporting and ensure compliance with the specified timelines, while ensuring you set up mechanisms for the reporting of significant cyber security incidents.
Invest in training and raising awareness. Conduct regular cyber security training and put in place awareness programs for all employees. Implement simulated attack exercises to educate everyone in your organisation about cyber security threats, and make sure ignorance of these risks does not stop you from taking appropriate procedures in the event of a crisis.
Develop a compliance program. Conduct regular internal and external audits to ensure compliance with NIS2 requirements, and maintain thorough documentation of your cybersecurity policies, procedures, and compliance efforts. Make sure to monitor further regulatory changes, and keep an eye out on any future updates to the EU directive and your local authorities’ legislation. Consult with professionals specialising in cyber security and data protection to ensure ongoing compliance.
Enhance your security measures based on the findings of your assessments. Strengthen your cyber security measures by implementing robust security controls and adopting industry best practices and frameworks. Appoint a dedicated cyber security team to oversee these efforts, and make sure the team is well equipped to handle the enhanced requirements set by NIS2. You should also take steps to enhance supply chain security based on your previous assessment of third-party service providers, and include cyber security requirements in your contracts with them.
The NIS2 directive represents a significant step towards better cyber security across the EU. By extending its scope, enhancing security requirements, and improving cooperation and incident response mechanisms, it aims to create a more resilient and secure digital environment.
By taking the steps outlined above, businesses can better prepare for the future, enhance their security posture and ensure compliance with the new regulatory framework. Want to know how we can help your organisation stay safe? Get in touch today to find out more about our services and how we tailor them specifically to meet your particular needs.
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