NIS2: This is what we know

2025 will be the year of NIS2, significantly tightening cybersecurity requirements for a wide range of organizations across the European Union. This new legislation, passed by the Swedish Government on October 17, 2024, will have a profound impact on businesses operating within the EU.

"With cyberattacks becoming increasingly sophisticated and frequent, organizations must implement robust measures to safeguard their systems, effectively respond to incidents, and maintain public trust."

To effectively navigate the evolving cyber threat landscape, the European Union has introduced the Network and Information Systems Directive 2 (NIS2). This comprehensive cybersecurity directive, set to be enforced by the Swedish government in 2025, will substantially elevate the cybersecurity standards expected of organizations across various sectors. This article explores the key implications of NIS2 and outlines practical steps to ensure your organization achieves full compliance.

What is NIS2?

The NIS2 Directive (Network and Information Security Directive 2) is a European law designed to enhance cybersecurity for organizations providing essential services. With cyberattacks becoming increasingly sophisticated and frequent, organizations must implement robust measures to safeguard their systems, effectively respond to incidents, and maintain public trust.

To comply with NIS2, organizations are mandated to adopt and maintain strong cybersecurity practices.     

Key Features of NIS2:

• Broader Scope: A significantly larger number of organizations, encompassing sectors such as energy, healthcare, transportation, and many more, will now fall under the directive's purview. This includes both essential and important entities, expanding the scope beyond the initial NIS Directive.
• Risk-Based Approach: Organizations are required to conduct thorough and ongoing risk assessments to identify their most critical assets and implement proportionate security measures tailored to the specific risks they face.
• Increased Reporting Requirements: Timely reporting of cybersecurity incidents to national authorities is mandatory, with strict timeframes for reporting incidents based on their severity.
• Enhanced Supply Chain Security: Organizations must assess and manage the cybersecurity risks associated with their entire supply chain, ensuring that third-party service providers do not introduce vulnerabilities into their own systems.
• Stronger Governance: Boards of directors and senior management must actively participate in the development and oversight of cybersecurity strategies, with clear accountability and oversight mechanisms to ensure compliance.

NIS2 represents a significant shift in the cybersecurity landscape. By proactively understanding and addressing the requirements of this directive, organizations can significantly enhance their resilience against cyber threats.

Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing journey, not a destination. Continuous vigilance, adaptation, and collaborative efforts across all levels of the organization are crucial for staying ahead of the evolving threat landscape.

Do you need assistance with bolstering your company's Security Awareness Level? Contact Nimblr today to learn how we can help you achieve and maintain compliance with NIS2 and strengthen your overall cybersecurity posture.This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or professional advice.