As everyone knows by now, the NIS2 Directive is a European legislation aimed at strengthening cybersecurity for essential and important entities within the European Union. At first glance, this seems to be a concern for these large private and public players who play a major role in the proper functioning of our society.
But if you look closely, it’s about much more than just these big players. SMEs also have important reasons to be interested in NIS2.
On the one hand, SMEs must also increase their level of security and reduce the risk of incidents for obvious reasons:
- SMBs are also vulnerable to cyber threats, and a successful attack can have devastating consequences on their operations, reputation, and financial viability.
- SMBs often handle sensitive data, whether it’s financial information, customer data, or other confidential business data.
- Cyberattacks can interrupt normal business operations, causing significant disruption and additional costs for SMBs.
- Being compliant with security standards such as ISO27001 can boost an SMB’s reputation for security and reliability among customers, business partners, and other stakeholders. It can also be a differentiator in the competitive market.
But, there’s another reason!
Although NIS2 will only be translated into national law this year (no later than 18 October 2024), many large companies and government organisations are already requiring their suppliers and business partners to comply with certain cybersecurity standards.
That is for:
- Responding to RFPs
- Develop business partnerships
- Or even … retain and develop a large customer over the long term
Because they deserve it, but also because NIS2 will impose on them, large companies and government organizations will have to demand that their suppliers have the ability to show “white paw” in terms of information security and data protection.
Above all, do not imagine that these companies will be able to come and check your home if you are able to ensure a sufficient level of security. Some may do so, but it will be up to you to demonstrate it.
If you don’t anticipate, you’ll lose opportunities and revenue