The European Union’s (EU) new cybersecurity regulations could have a significant impact on Dutch ports, according to industry experts. The updated Network and Information Security Directive (NIS2) expands the scope of regulations to include a wider range of organizations, including online platforms and core infrastructure service providers. This means that a greater number of port stakeholders, including big and small terminals, will now have to comply with the new rules.
Marijn van Schoote, Manager of IT Service Management, Operations & Cyber Security at the Port of Rotterdam, highlighted the potential implications of these regulations. Under NIS1, only a handful of companies were required to comply, but under NIS2, more than a hundred companies will be affected. This means that both large and small terminals will have to take additional measures to meet the new cybersecurity requirements.
The updated regulations also hold company boards and CEOs more accountable for violations. This could result in higher costs for companies as they may need to invest in hiring consultants or purchasing new cybersecurity software. However, credit rating agency Moody’s predicts that companies that comply with the regulations could benefit from improved interest rates, which could help offset the increased cybersecurity costs.
Meanwhile, in the United States, Air Force Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh, President Joe Biden’s nominee for the new head of US Cyber Command and the National Security Agency (NSA), is set to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor, Army General Paul Nakasone. Former officials who have worked closely with both Haugh and Nakasone commend Haugh for his calmness, open-mindedness, and clear-headedness, qualities that they believe are essential for the position. Haugh brings more than thirty years of experience as a military intelligence officer to the role, and he has previously served in various leadership positions within the Cyber Command and the NSA.
Haugh’s confirmation hearing is expected to address important issues in the cybersecurity realm, including the Section 702 measure, which allows intelligence agencies to search foreign communications. Additionally, there will likely be discussions about the dual-hat leadership structure overseeing both the NSA and Cyber Command and whether it is the most appropriate strategy.
In another development, the governor of New York, Kathy Hochul, recently announced that $51 million in state grants will be awarded to nonprofit organizations through the State’s Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes grants program. This funding includes $9 million specifically allocated for cybersecurity enhancements, which is a historic amount for the program. The decision to allocate funds for cybersecurity projects highlights the increasing importance of protecting community organizations that may be targeted due to their ideology or mission. The funding aims to help them invest in the necessary security measures to stay safe.
New York witnessed a 20% increase in reported hate crimes in 2022 compared to the previous year, with over nine hundred incidents recorded. The state recognizes the need to provide support to organizations that are at risk, and by allocating funds for cybersecurity enhancements, it acknowledges the evolving nature of threats and the crucial role cybersecurity plays in safeguarding these organizations.
As cybersecurity threats continue to escalate globally, governments and regulatory bodies are taking significant steps to ensure the protection of critical infrastructure and organizations. The EU’s cybersecurity regulations are expanding their scope and impacting industries such as ports, while the nomination of a new chief for the NSA and Cyber Command in the US reflects the ongoing need for capable leaders in the field. Furthermore, the allocation of funds for cybersecurity enhancements in the fight against hate crimes demonstrates the recognition of cybersecurity as an essential component of overall safety and security measures.