NIS 2 is the revised Network and Information Security Directive (NIS Directive), which the European Union adopted to strengthen cybersecurity across member states. It builds on the original NIS Directive, which was the first piece of EU-wide cybersecurity legislation introduced in 2016. NIS 2 aims to address the evolving cybersecurity landscape and expand the directive’s scope to ensure that a broader range of essential sectors are adequately protected from cyber threats.
The critical aspects of NIS 2 include:
- Expanded Scope: NIS 2 covers a broader range of sectors, including digital infrastructure, public administration, healthcare, food, and postal services. This means more organizations are required to meet cybersecurity standards.
- Harmonization: It aims to harmonize the rules across EU member states to reduce inconsistencies and ensure a uniform level of cybersecurity across the EU.
- Stricter Requirements: Organizations that fall under NIS 2 will be required to implement stricter security measures, including incident reporting obligations, risk management practices, and regular cybersecurity assessments.
- Stronger Enforcement and Penalties: NIS 2 introduces stronger enforcement mechanisms and penalties for non-compliance, similar to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This includes significant fines for organizations that fail to meet the requirements.
- Governance: It also emphasizes the importance of leadership accountability for cybersecurity risks within organizations, ensuring that executive boards take responsibility for overseeing compliance with NIS 2 requirements.
The directive aims to create a more resilient and secure digital infrastructure across the EU to combat rising cyber threats and safeguard essential services and industries. NIS 2 plays a crucial role in protecting citizens and economies from the disruptive effects of cyber incidents.
Cyberattacks on essential services—such as energy, healthcare, or water supply—can have severe consequences, including loss of life, economic damage, and public trust in these services. By strengthening cybersecurity across these sectors, NIS 2 aims to prevent these incidents and protect the public.
Organizations will be legally obligated to comply with NIS2 by the end of 2024. Don’t wait for enforcement. Reach out to our team to discuss how we can help you navigate the complexities of NIS 2 and safeguard your essential services.