As digital transformation accelerates, the need for robust cybersecurity measures increases. The European Union’s latest initiative, the NIS2 Directive, expands and strengthens the rules for network and information security that every business within the EU must comply with. At Inside Systems, we are dedicated to helping your business navigate these complex regulations and ensure that you not only meet the legal requirements but also effectively protect against cyber threats.
What is the NIS2 Directive?
The NIS2 Directive is an update and expansion of the original NIS Directive from 2016. It sets new standards for security measures and reporting requirements for network and information systems within the EU. The directive now covers more sectors and businesses, including digital services such as cloud computing and search engines, as well as essential services like energy, transport, health, and financial services. This broader coverage ensures that more organizations are protected against the rising threats in the digital landscape.
Why is NIS2 Important for Your Business?
Complying with the NIS2 Directive is not just a legal obligation. It is a vital component of your company’s cyber defense. The directive helps to ensure that all businesses within the EU’s borders have implemented robust security measures to protect against and manage cybersecurity threats. This is crucial, as a security breach can lead to not only financial losses but also damage to the company’s reputation and customer trust.
How Does It Affect Small and Medium-sized Enterprises?
The expanded scope of NIS2 means that more SMEs are now under the directive’s requirements. These businesses must now implement security measures that were previously only necessary for larger organizations. This includes risk management, reporting security incidents, and maintaining system resilience. For many SMEs, this can be a significant challenge, as they may not have the same resources as larger companies. Therefore, it is essential to find a reliable partner who can help navigate these requirements and ensure a high level of cybersecurity.
Frequency of Cyber Attacks
A 2022 report estimated that a cyber attack occurs every 39 seconds globally. The same report showed that, on average, companies experience 22 security breaches per year. In terms of economic impact, it is estimated that global costs related to cybercrime will reach $10.5 trillion USD annually by 2025, up from $3 trillion USD in 2015.
Targets of Attacks: Phishing and ransomware are among the most widespread types of attacks. A global security survey in 2021 reported that 74% of organizations were targeted by phishing attacks, and ransomware attacks have increased by over 150% in number from the previous year.
In the EU, the cybersecurity landscape is characterized by a wide range of threats and frequent attacks, ranging from ransomware and malware to more advanced social engineering and spear-phishing attacks.
According to the 2023 report from ENISA (European Union Agency for Cybersecurity), ransomware remains one of the most prominent threats, with many organizations experiencing significant attacks. In addition, an increase in the abuse of zero-day vulnerabilities has been observed, and there is an increased use of AI technologies in disinformation campaigns. In July 2022, one of the largest DDoS attacks ever was recorded in Europe, highlighting the seriousness of the threat (ENISA).
CERT-EU’s 2023 report notes that during the year, 602 cases of malicious activity (MAIs) specifically targeting EU entities or their vicinity were analyzed. These attacks included a wide range of tactics and techniques, where spear-phishing continued to be the dominant method of initial access for both state-supported and criminal groups. Ransomware remained the predominant criminal cyber activity globally, although no significant ransomware attacks specifically affecting EU entities were recorded. Despite this, activities from at least 55 ransomware operations in Europe were registered (CERT-EU).
Overall, the cyber threats against the EU are both complex and varied, and they affect many sectors, from public administration to defense, transportation, and health.
Inside Systems’ Role in Complying with NIS2
At Inside Systems, we understand the challenges posed by the NIS2 Directive to businesses. Our staff in secure data handling and data erasure are here to help you effectively meet these new requirements. We offer a wide range of services designed to ensure that your business not only complies with the directive but also stands strong against potential threats.
Secure Data Handling
At Inside Systems, we understand that security begins with how data is handled from the moment phased-out IT equipment is picked up in our secure vehicle with GPS tracking systems, to when it is stored in our data center, where only authorized personnel can enter with a fingerprint scanner and re-marketing after a meticulous renovation process. With the NIS2 Directive, it becomes even more important to implement and maintain security measures that can withstand the latest threats and protect against data intrusion.
Data Erasure with NIST 800-88r1 Standard
To meet the NIS2 Directive’s requirements for data integrity, Inside Systems offers certified data erasure processes that guarantee deleted data cannot be recreated or misused. This service is crucial for companies that want to protect against data leaks, especially when it involves sensitive information no longer needed. After data units are stored in our secure data center—under our ITAD process—we employ certified software-based data erasure that meets international standards (NIST 800-88r1).
Documentation on Secure Data Erasure
A key element of the NIS2 Directive is the ability to document for regulatory authorities. Inside Systems assists your business with documentation on data erasure that not only ensures compliance with the law but also strengthens security measures. This documentation is essential to demonstrate that all necessary steps have been taken to protect sensitive data and ensure that it cannot be recreated.
Future-proofing with Inside Systems
In a world where cyber threats constantly evolve, it is crucial to stay ahead of the latest security standards and protocols. At Inside Systems, we are dedicated to staying updated with the latest trends and threats in this area. We work closely with our customers to develop unique solutions that not only meet the requirements of the NIS2 Directive but also protect against future threats and ensure that personal data does not end up in the wrong hands.
