Understanding NIS2: Enhancing Cybersecurity in Critical Sectors

5. Examine the Set of Ten Cybersecurity Risk Management Actions Stipulated by the NIS2

The NIS2 Directive mandates ten cybersecurity risk management measures, encompassing incident management, risk assessment, and penetration testing. To illustrate, an organization may adopt an incident management plan to guarantee an effective response capability.

As stipulated by Article 21 of the legislation, it is required for both EEs and IEs to implement a minimum of the subsequent ten actions:

• Policies on risk analysis and information system security

• Incident handling (prevention, detection, and response to incidents)

• Crisis management and business continuity, such as backup management and disaster recovery

• Supply chain security, including security-related aspects concerning the relationships between each entity and its suppliers or service providers

• Security in network and information systems acquisition, development, and maintenance, including vulnerability handling and disclosure

• Policies and procedures (testing and auditing) to assess the effectiveness of cybersecurity risk management measures

• Basic cyber hygiene practices and cybersecurity training

• Policies and procedures regarding the use of cryptography and, where appropriate, encryption

• Human resources security, access control policies, and asset management

• The use of multi-factor authentication or continuous authentication solutions, secured voice, video and text communications, and secured emergency communication systems within the entity, where appropriate

6. Establish a System for Managing Risk and Information Security

Organizations can implement a risk and information security management system to ensure compliance with the NIS2 Directive. This can include implementing policies and procedures to manage risks and ensure compliance.

• Risk Assessment and Management

• Access Control

• Incident Response Plan

• Security Awareness Training

• Regular Security Audits and Assessments

• Data Encryption

• Network Security

• Vendor and Third-Party Management

• Backup and Disaster Recovery

• Security Governance and Compliance

ISMS Connect provides tools and resources to streamline the process of identifying and assessing risks and implementing effective risk management strategies.  It facilitates the establishment of a robust risk and information security management system, providing the necessary documents, guidance, and access to experts.

7. Commence the Process of Managing Your IT Supply Chain Security

Organizations can initiate their IT supply chain security management process by ensuring suppliers comply with the NIS2 Directive. This can include conducting audits of suppliers’ security practices.

8. Implement Regular Employee Awareness Training

Organizations can implement regular employee awareness training to ensure their employees know the risks associated with cyber threats. This can include training employees on identifying phishing emails or other types of cyber attacks.

9. Conduct Regular Security Tests and Audits

Organizations can conduct regular security tests and audits to ensure their systems comply with the NIS2 Directive. This can include conducting penetration testing or vulnerability assessments.

The NIS2 Directive formally requires Electronic Entities (EEs) and Important Entities (IEs) to undertake the following actions:

• Identify and assess security risks

• Implement risk management measures

• Adopt security measures for resilience

• Notify significant incidents

• Cooperate with authorities and entities

• Establish security policies and procedures

• Appoint a security officer

• Ensure supplier security

• Conduct regular audits and assessments

• Report incidents to national authorities

• Demonstrate compliance

Best Practices in Complying with NIS2 Directive

Establish a Secure System Architecture

The foundation of NIS2 compliance begins with a secure system architecture. Design your digital infrastructure with security in mind from the outset. This includes implementing robust access controls, segmenting networks to limit the spread of cyber threats, and employing encryption where necessary. By weaving security into the fabric of your architecture, you're already on the path to compliance.

When you partner with ISMS Connect, you can leverage their expertise to design your digital infrastructure with security at the forefront. This collaboration empowers you to implement robust access controls, intelligently segment networks to mitigate the spread of cyber threats, and apply encryption where needed. 

ISMS Connect's comprehensive toolkit provides the necessary resources and guidance to weave security into your architecture seamlessly. By utilizing their expertise and resources, you fortify your defenses and expedite your journey toward NIS2 compliance.

Use of Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a simple yet powerful tool in your cybersecurity arsenal. It adds an extra layer of protection by requiring users to provide two or more forms of identification before granting access. Implementing MFA across your organization can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and enhance overall security, an essential requirement of NIS2.

Regularly Update and Patch Your Infrastructure and Applications

Cyber threats evolve continuously, making it imperative to avoid potential vulnerabilities.

Regularly update and patch your infrastructure and applications to safeguard against known exploits. Automated patch management tools can streamline this process, ensuring your systems are fortified against emerging threats and aligning with NIS2's security expectations.

Always Monitor the System

Proactive monitoring is at the heart of effective cybersecurity. Implement real-time monitoring tools to detect and respond swiftly to anomalies or suspicious activities. Regularly reviewing logs and conducting security audits can help identify potential weaknesses in your system, allowing you to address them before they become significant issues.