The Cyprus Digital Security Authority issues its Decision
The Digital Team of our Firm has advised the Digital Security Authority of Cyprus and KPMG for the legal drafting and vetting of the legal framework regulating Cybersecurity for the forthcoming 5G Networks in Cyprus.
On the 11th September 2020, DSA issued the Network and Information Security (Cyber Security of 5th Generation Networks and Electronic Communications Services) Decision of 2020 (S.I. No. 408/2020).
The Decision adopts specific strategic and technical measures listed in the EU Toolbox for Cybersecurity of 5G Networks issued on January 2020. These measures aim to strengthen the role of the DSA, as the Cyprus National Authority, and provide for the minimum cybersecurity measures to be adopted by 5G Mobile Operators in Cyprus.
The most important of these measures are the following:
- DSA may exercise ex-ante powers to restrict, prohibit and/or impose specific requirements or conditions, following a risk-based approach, for the supply, deployment and operation of the 5G network equipment,
- the risk profile of suppliers of Mobile Operators is assessed and restrictions could be applied for suppliers considered to be high risk,
- the diversity of Mobile Operators’ suppliers is ensured through appropriate multi-vendor strategies that should be adopted by Mobile Operators.
A main objective of the Decision is to ensure that there is an adequate balance of suppliers at national level to ensure that there is resilience in case there is an incident with one Mobile operator and/or one supplier.
The Decision paves the way for the introduction and operation of 5G Networks in Cyprus and groundbreaking uses, stipulated by the European Commission:
The health sector finds 5G useful for remote monitoring, home care, addressing the needs of patients in remote areas, and robotic surgery. By moving to 5G networks, healthcare organizations can use the Artificial Intelligence tools they need to provide the best care possible.
With high-capacity enabling the Internet of Things and low-latency supporting real-time control of devices, factories could be upgraded with automated processes and interconnected machines to improve efficiency and safety.
The unprecedented speed, connectivity and high capacity of 5G can improve our road safety. With connected cars that are able to exchange information in real-time, it will mean drivers will be able to “see” the road ahead to avoid incidents and overtake more safely. 5G is also needed to make connected automated mobility, or self-driving cars, a reality.
Our Firm’s team of lawyers was led by Partner Michail Kamperis, assisted by Associate Giannos Oustas.
Our Digital Team advises public and private clients at various fields of Digital and Technology such as Electronic Identification, Blockchain and 5G.