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Cybersecurity Is Everywhere: ENISA COO

Europe faces unprecedented cybersecurity challenges as organizations embrace digital change. That's why ENISA, the European cybersecurity agency, is focusing on critical areas to bolster Europe's digital defenses - supporting member states by enhancing their cybersecurity programs through legislation, exercises and comprehensive reports, according to Hans de Vries, chief cybersecurity and chief operations officer at ENISA.

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Managing supply chain risks and developing skilled cybersecurity professionals are crucial for future security, de Vries said. ENISA is creating a standardized skills framework to improve cybersecurity education across Europe. By defining the necessary competencies, the agency aims to ensure that both technical experts and policymakers are well-prepared to tackle emerging threats, he said.

"Cybersecurity is everywhere," de Vries said. "Information sharing and having a good understanding of what's happening during, before and after crisis are crucial."

In this interview with Information Security Media Group at Black Hat 2024, de Vries also discussed:

• How the EU Cyber Resilience Act and the Digital Services Act aim to regulate and secure software;
• ENISA's role in enhancing election security through exercises and advisories;
• The importance of securing both IT and OT for national security.

In his 20 years of experience as a cybersecurity professional, de Vries has worked closely with multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector organizations and international partners. At ENISA, he represents the agency in the NIS Cooperation Group, the European Cyber Crisis Liaison Organization Network and the CSIRTs Network and supports the agency in coordinating strategic matters across operational units and teams.