EU states take initial steps toward 5G security

BRUSSELS, July 19 (KUNA) -- Twenty-four European Union Member States have now completed the first step and submitted national risk assessments, in response to a recommendation by European Commission for a common approach for of 5G networks' security, These assessments will feed into the next phase, a EU-wide risk assessment which will be completed by October 1, EU Commissioner for the Security Union, Julian King, told a news conference here Friday.
"We are pleased to see that most Member States have now submitted their risk assessments ... to our call for concrete measures to help ensure the cybersecurity of 5G networks across the EU," he said.
"The national risk assessments are essential to make sure that Member States are adequately prepared for the deployment of the next generation of wireless connectivity that will soon form the backbone of our societies and economies, " he noted. EU National risk assessments include an overview of main threats and actors affecting 5G networks; degree of sensitivity of 5G network components and functions as well as other assets; in addition to various types of vulnerabilities, such as those potentially arising from the 5G supply chain, he said.
Fifth generation (5G) networks will form essential digital infrastructure in the future, connecting billions of objects and systems, including critical sectors such as energy, transport, banking, and health, as well as industrial control systems carrying sensitive information and supporting safety systems. According to media reports, Chinese companies account to 34% of worldwide applications for major patents related to 5G technology. (end) nk.rk