eBay, Amazon and Google could soon be sanctioned under new EU rules after Members of the European Parliament voted to create the first ever Europe-wide cyber security laws.
In moves that increase momentum towards a Digital Single Market, major online brands, along with energy, transport, health and banking players will have to show they are “cyberattack-proof” under the Network and Information Security Directive.
Micro and small digital firms, though it’s not clear how small, as well as social networks including Facebook, will be exempt from the rules requiring the provision of secure networks and reporting of major data breaches.
It’s not clear what the sanctions will look like, or indeed how any platform can really prove to be un-hackable. TNW has reached out to the European Parliament get an answer on this and we’ll update as soon as we hear back.
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In a blog post celebrating the vote, the European Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society Günther Oettinger said these measures will increase consumer trust as digital services will soon be backed by cyber security teams working across Europe.
This looks like a boon for cyber security startups, with the intention being to set up a public-private partnership to support innovation in this area starting next year.
The draft rules still need to be formally approved by the parliament’s Internal Market Committee, as well as the Council Committee of Permanent Representatives, which consists of delegates from each of the 28 member states.
This news comes hot on the heels of the first meeting of the EU Internet Forum, which brought together big tech brands with EU governments and the Europol police force to discuss joint working on tackling online hate speech.
Despite protests across Europe about ever closer EU integration, perhaps most particularly in the UK, it looks like those who aren’t in favour may increasingly be left out.
➤ MEPs close deal with Council on first ever EU rules on cybersecurity [European Parliament]
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