Information Security for Critical Infrastructure (KRITIS) Operators

Critical Infrastructures (KRITIS) include organizations and facilities in essential sectors that are vital to a nation’s economic development, societal well-being, and political stability. These sectors include:

• Energy: Electricity, gas, and petroleum
• Information Technology and Telecommunications
• Transport and Logistics: Aviation, shipping, and supply chains
• Healthcare: Hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and laboratories
• Water Supply and Wastewater Management
• Food Supply
• Finance and Insurance
• Government and Administration
• Media and Culture: Broadcasting, press, and cultural assets
• Waste Management

Disruptions or shortages in these areas can have serious consequences for public safety and the functioning of society. 

KRITIS operators rely on secure information and communication systems. Ensuring the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of processed information is critical for maintaining operational resilience. As such, IT and information security are indispensable for these organizations.

IT Security Law Requirements for KRITIS Operators

Under the IT Security Act, KRITIS operators must meet specific information security requirements, including:

• Implementing organizational and technical measures to prevent disruptions to IT systems, components, or processes critical to infrastructure functionality.
• Establishing and maintaining an Information Security Management System (ISMS).
• Complying with reporting obligations under the BSI Act (BSIG) and BSI-Kritis Regulation (BSI-KritisV):
  • Designate a contact point with the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI).
  • Report significant IT disruptions.
  • Provide proof of compliance with state-of-the-art information security practices every two years through audits, assessments, or certifications.

New Developments: NIS-2 Directive

The NIS-2 Directive came into effect on January 16, 2023, requiring EU member states to adopt it into national law by October 17, 2024. Entities classified as “essential” and “important” must take into account expanded risk management measures:

• Risk Analysis and IT Security Plans: Comprehensive strategies to identify and manage risks.
• Incident Response and Crisis Management: Backup management, disaster recovery, and continuity planning.
• Supply Chain Security: Addressing security across supplier relationships.
• System Lifecycle Security: Measures for secure system acquisition, development, and maintenance.
• Cyber Hygiene and Training: Ongoing education and basic cybersecurity protocols.
• Encryption and Cryptographic Solutions: Implementing secure communication practices.
• Access Control and Personnel Security: Multi-factor authentication and facility management.
   

Organizations with an ISMS and Business Continuity Management System (BCMS) will be well-positioned to meet these new requirements with minimal additional effort.

Why Choose the DSN GROUP as Your Partner in Information Security?

DSN GROUP is your trusted partner for all aspects of information security, offering unmatched expertise and tailored solutions.

Our Expertise

• Proven Experience: Our consultants bring years of hands-on experience with the ISO/IEC 27000 standards, IT-Grundschutz, sector-specific requirements, and acting as external Information Security Officers (ISOs).
• Diverse Client Base: We work with small, medium, and large enterprises, public authorities, and religious organizations. Our expertise extends to advising KRITIS operators across multiple sectors on meeting the requirements of the IT Security Act.
• Auditor Training: We also provide specialized training for auditors in compliance with § 8a BSIG, ensuring the highest standards of security and compliance.
   

Comprehensive Services

From initial security assessments to the implementation of required measures, we offer a full range of services to help secure your organization’s IT landscape. Whether you’re building a new framework or enhancing existing processes, we’re here to support you every step of the way.