In the digital age, where technological advancements and cyber threats evolve at an unprecedented pace, the need for robust legal frameworks and services has never been more critical. Recognizing this imperative, our law firm is delighted to announce the expansion of our legal services into the dynamic realms of cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), privacy, and data protection. This strategic move positions us uniquely as a one-stop legal services provider in the Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) region, offering our clients comprehensive legal support tailored to the digital era.
Our introductory article serves as a gateway to understanding the complex domain of cybersecurity and data regulations and standards. With the CEE perspective at its core, our aim is to guide businesses through the evolving legal landscape, ensuring compliance and fostering innovation within a secure framework.
Cybersecurity Regulations: A Pillar of Digital Resilience
In the EU, several key regulations form the backbone of cybersecurity governance, and are aimed at enhancing the security posture of entities across various sectors:
The Cybersecurity Act is pivotal in establishing robust cybersecurity frameworks, emphasizing the importance of certification schemes. The NIS 2 Directive, building on its predecessor, expands the scope of sectors considered critical, imposing stricter security and incident reporting requirements.
The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) targets the financial sector with enhanced regulations aimed at harmonizing the fragmented regulatory landscape in regards to ICT Risk Management, incident reporting, testing (including mandatory advanced testing, such as threat-led penetration testing), Third-Party Risk Management, and an oversight framework for critical third-party providers.
The Critical Entities Resilience (CER) directive targets specific sectors with enhanced regulations to bolster their operational resilience against cyber threats.
The Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) aims for a standardized cybersecurity framework for digital products, laying down obligations for manufacturers, importers and distributors.
Data Regulations: Safeguarding Privacy and Fostering Trust
The AI Act (AIA) at the very centre of data-related regulations, is a pioneering effort to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) across EU member states, laying down a comprehensive legal framework to govern the development, deployment, and use of AI systems and AI models, including foundation models (GPAI).
The Data Governance Act (DGA) and the Data Act are significant strides towards establishing a legal framework that encourages innovation while ensuring data protection and privacy.
Cornerstone laws such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) continue to be the foundation of privacy, complemented by regulations like the eIDAS (along with the eIDAS2), for secure and trusty electronic transactions and the protection of personal data.
Standards and Frameworks: The Bedrock of Compliance and Security
Our services extend beyond legal advice to include guidance on the international standards and frameworks essential for cybersecurity and privacy compliance:
The well-established hallmark standard in its new edition ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Amd1 2024 together with ISO/IEC 27701 offer comprehensive management systems for information security and privacy.
The NIST’s SP 800-53 and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 provide a robust set of controls and a flexible framework for managing cyber risks effectively.
ISO/IEC 42001:2023 specifies requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an Artificial Intelligence Management System (AIMS) within organizations. It is designed for entities providing or utilizing AI-based products or services, ensuring responsible development and use of AI systems. For organizations handling high-risk AI systems, ISO/IEC 42001 will serve as an essential instrument for implementing compliance with the AI Act.
A CEE Perspective on Legal Services: The One-Stop Shop Advantage
Our expansion into these new domains of legal services underscores our commitment to providing holistic legal solutions from a CEE perspective. Understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in the region, we offer tailored advice that navigates the web of regulations and standards, ensuring that our clients not only comply with current laws in each of the local jurisdictions but are also prepared for future developments.
Looking Ahead: An Ongoing Journey of Compliance and Innovation
This introductory article marks the beginning of a series that will delve deeper into emerging regulations and standards in cybersecurity, AI, privacy, and data protection. Stay tuned as we explore the nuances of each domain, and offer insights and guidance into navigating the complexities of the digital age.
At our law firm, we understand that compliance is not just about meeting legal requirements; it’s about fostering a culture of security and innovation. As we embark on this journey together, we are excited to support our clients in achieving their digital ambitions within a secure and compliant framework.
Mind map of Cybersecurity, Data Regulations and Standards:
