Security of 5G networks improve through coordinated European approaches

The purpose of the so-called Toolbox for 5G Security is to ensure a high level of network security across the EU. A further aim is a harmonised approach to the security of 5G networks in all Member States.

The approaches were prepared by EU Member States with the support of the European Commission and the European Union Agency for Cyber Security. In Finland, the preparations were made in extensive cooperation between the authorities led by the Ministry of Transport and Communications.  

What is the EU 5G Toolbox all about?

EU Member States have now outlined a shared vision of how to ensure the security of 5G networks.  The Toolbox provides means to respond to the concerns raised in the EU Coordinated Risk Assessment on Cybersecurity in 5G Networks published on 9 October 2019.

The recommendations of the Toolbox are primarily directed at Member States, telecom operators and equipment manufacturers.

For users the recommendations mean safer networks and better services.

Some of the measures are strategic. These include the recommendations to use equipment from several suppliers in the construction of networks.

Some of the recommendations are technical, such as those related to network management, certification and security standards.

The 5G Toolbox is available at https://ec.europa.eu/digital-single-market/en/news/cybersecurity-5g-networks-eu-toolbox-risk-mitigating-measures

What next?

Member States will review the contents of the Toolbox and assess whether changes to national legislation, for example, are needed.

The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom) supports network operators and equipment manufacturers in using the Toolbox.

Member States, together with the European Commission, will assess the impacts of the measures on 1 October 2020.

In Finland, potential needs for legislative changes will be identified and amendments implemented as part of law drafting work.

Inquiries:

Laura Vilkkonen, Director General, tel. +358 40 500 0817 

European Commission: Cybersecurity of 5G networks - EU Toolbox of risk mitigating measures
European Commission, 9 October 2019: Member States publish a report on EU coordinated risk assessment of 5G networks security
EU2019.fi, 9 October 2019: Member States publish a report on EU coordinated risk assessment of 5G networks security