Calls for additional EU security against cyber threats

Members of the European Parliament have called for tighter EU cyber security standards for connected devices, apps and operating systems, amid recent cyber attacks on critical infrastructure in the EU.

MEPs welcome the European Commission’s plans to propose horizontal legislation on cyber security requirements for connected products and associated services, but also want the commission to attempt to harmonise national laws in order to avoid the fragmentation of the Single Market. A resolution calls for connected products and associated services, including supply chains, to be made secure-by-design, resilient to cyber incidents, and quickly patched if vulnerabilities are discovered.

MEPs warn that hybrid threats, such as methods or activities used by hostile state or non-state actors to target democratic states and institutions, are increasing and are becoming more sophisticated. This includes the use of disinformation campaigns and cyber attacks on infrastructure, economic processes and democratic institutions. They fear the impact on elections, legislative procedures, law enforcement and justice.

The European Parliament highlights the recent series of cyber attacks on healthcare systems such as in Ireland, Finland and France, which cause significant damage to healthcare systems and patient care.