Hungary’s Strategy for Network and Information Systems Security

The Strategy for the Security of Network and Information Systems in Hungary focuses on creating a secure and resilient cyberspace, aiming to enhance Hungary’s competitiveness and safeguard public administration, governmental operations, and the economy from cyber threats. Here are some of the key aspects:

1. Background and Purpose

• The strategy addresses the rapid expansion of information and communication technology (ICT) and the corresponding increase in cyber threats. The goal is to create a free, secure, and innovative cyberspace, which will contribute to Hungary’s economic and social development.

2. National Cyber Security Strategy

• The strategy builds on Hungary’s National Cyber Security Strategy, first established in 2013. It emphasizes international cooperation, shared public-private responsibility, education, awareness, and child protection. It aligns with the European Union’s NIS Directive, which mandates a high common level of security for network and information systems across member states.

3. Key Objectives

• Strengthening Trust in the Digital Environment: The strategy aims to improve professional cooperation among governmental, market, educational, and civil society actors. It also focuses on raising public awareness about cyber threats and promoting responsible behavior online.
• Protection of Digital Infrastructure: The strategy includes measures for quality management of IT developments, enhancing the security of government electronic services, and protecting essential services and critical infrastructures.
• Support for Economic Actors: The strategy promotes cooperation with research centers, development of cyber security-related education and training, and support for Hungarian digital innovation. It aims to create a competitive domestic knowledge base to meet both international standards and the needs of the Hungarian labor market.

4. Governance and Implementation

• The strategy outlines a governance framework that includes the National Cyber Security Coordination Council, responsible for coordinating national efforts in cybersecurity. It also highlights the role of specialized institutions like CSIRTs (Computer Security Incident Response Teams) in managing cyber incidents.

5. International Cooperation

• Hungary seeks to strengthen its role in international cybersecurity cooperation, particularly within the EU, NATO, and other regional frameworks. The strategy promotes Hungary’s active participation in international cyber defense exercises and the development of common operational protocols.

6. Legal and Regulatory Framework

• The strategy aligns with various Hungarian laws and European directives related to cybersecurity, ensuring that the measures and objectives outlined are backed by a solid legal framework.

7. Implementation Measures

• The strategy includes specific measures to improve cybersecurity, such as developing modular methodological guidelines for IT projects, increasing the security of public administration systems, and enhancing the capacity of law enforcement to combat cybercrime.

8. Challenges and Threats

• The strategy acknowledges the increasing complexity and frequency of cyber threats, including cybercrime, cyber espionage, and ideologically motivated attacks. It stresses the need for continuous adaptation and improvement of Hungary’s cybersecurity capabilities.