Germany Strengthens Critical Infrastructure Protection with New Law
Berlin, Germany – November 6, 2024
The German Federal Government has passed a comprehensive law aimed at enhancing the resilience and protection of critical infrastructures in the face of increasing threats. The “Law on the Protection of Critical Infrastructures” (Kritis-Schutzgesetz) was approved by the Bundestag and Bundesrat and will come into effect on January 1, 2025.
The law defines critical infrastructures as those essential for maintaining vital functions of society, including energy, water, telecommunications, transportation, and finance. The aim of the law is to ensure that these infrastructures are adequately protected against cyberattacks, physical attacks, and other threats.
Key Provisions of the Law
The Kritis-Schutzgesetz includes several key provisions to strengthen critical infrastructure protection:
- Obligation to report incidents: Operators of critical infrastructures are required to report cybersecurity incidents and other threats to the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI).
- Enhanced cybersecurity measures: Operators must implement specific cybersecurity measures, such as encryption, multi-factor authentication, and vulnerability management.
- Risk assessments: Operators are required to conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
- Improved coordination: A national center for critical infrastructure protection will be established to coordinate efforts between the government, operators, and security agencies.
- Penalties for non-compliance: Failure to comply with the law can result in fines of up to €50 million.
Government Response
Federal Minister for the Interior and Homeland Security, Nancy Faeser, welcomed the passage of the law: “With our Law on the Protection of Critical Infrastructures, we are making Germany more resilient against crises.” She emphasized the need to protect critical infrastructures from both domestic and international threats.
Industry Reaction
Industry representatives have hailed the law as a positive step towards enhancing the security of critical infrastructures. The German Association for Critical Infrastructure (BVKI) stated that the law will “significantly contribute to increasing the security level of critical infrastructures in Germany.”
International Cooperation
The Kritis-Schutzgesetz is also aligned with international efforts to strengthen critical infrastructure protection. Germany is a member of the European Union’s (EU) Network and Information Security Directive (NIS2), which sets harmonized security requirements for critical infrastructures across the EU.
Conclusion
The Law on the Protection of Critical Infrastructures is a significant step forward in Germany’s efforts to ensure the resilience and security of its critical assets. The law will enhance cybersecurity measures, improve coordination, and provide a robust legal framework for protecting critical infrastructures from a wide range of threats.
“Mit unserem Gesetz zum Schutz kritischer Infrastrukturen machen wir Deutschland krisenfester!”
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