New European Cybersecurity Regulations are coming! Increased Accountability for Corporate Leadership

Recent legal developments in Europe in the Cyber security field are set to impact businesses throughout Europe, particularly those involved in software development. With stricter regulations on the horizon, The NIS2 Directive is the EU-wide legislation on cybersecurity (The EU cybersecurity rules introduced in 2016 were updated by the NIS2 Directive). It provides legal measures to boost the overall level of cybersecurity in the EU. Companies must reassess and enhance their cybersecurity measures to comply with the impending changes.

One key aspect of the new European policy is the heightened accountability placed on corporate leadership. Under the new regulations, company executives will be explicitly responsible for their organisation’s cybersecurity policies. Failure to fulfil these duties could result in personal liability, including potential temporary suspension from their positions.

Historically, many executives have delegated cybersecurity matters to IT departments, with their involvement limited to budget approvals. However, the upcoming regulations demand a more proactive role from them. They are now required to approve cybersecurity measures, oversee their implementation, and ensure the security of their direct suppliers.

Now that companies are digitally interconnected, a weak backdoor at a small supplier can affect the entire chain. The new regulations, therefore, compel large companies to take more responsibility for their suppliers. They must assist them, for example, by sharing their knowledge.

The rules will be enacted in the Netherlands in 2025 and in other EU countries. These regulatory changes necessitate organisations to complete their comprehensive review of procedures and enhance the security of software development operations. Developers must integrate cybersecurity considerations into every stage of the software development lifecycle, from design to deployment. This includes implementing robust authentication mechanisms, encryption protocols, and secure coding practices to mitigate cyber risks effectively.

Furthermore, software development companies must extend their cybersecurity efforts to encompass their supply chain. Collaborating with suppliers to enhance their security posture is essential in safeguarding the ecosystem against potential threats. For instance, make sure all your hosting providers and cloud providers have the necessary certifications in the cybersecurity field.

While the new regulations present challenges, they also create opportunities for innovation and growth within the software development industry. Companies proactively investing in cybersecurity measures can gain a competitive edge by demonstrating their commitment to data protection and risk mitigation. Additionally, the demand for cybersecurity professionals will likely surge, creating opportunities for skilled individuals in the job market.

The impending European cybersecurity regulations NIS2 underscore the critical importance of robust cybersecurity practices in software development operations. By proactively enhancing security measures and aligning with regulatory requirements, companies can mitigate risks, protect sensitive data, and ensure their corporate leadership is safe from personal liability because of security issues.

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