EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The European Union’s ultra-fast, hyper-connected networks, known as 5G, may be vulnerable to a formidable cyber attack. This is noteworthy, as 5G will likely become the backbone of millions of government and business initiatives.

A recent report prepared by EU member countries warned that nation-state backed cyber criminals may try to infiltrate systems. “While the report does not name any country or company, observers have frequently cited China, the world’s biggest telecoms equipment vendor, Huawei Technologies, as [a] potential threat…”

In response, EU nations have jumped at the possibility of collaboratively working to secure 5G networks. Ensuring that all EU member states maintain a standard set of practices when it comes to securing infrastructure will prevent security gaps and reinforce protections.

At the same time, the EU remains wary of placing all control in the hands of a single telecom company, as one security breach could then place entire nations in danger.

It has been recommended that EU nations source operational parts from diverse suppliers as to both minimize potential insider threats and to prevent fallout if a supplier should experience interference from a non-EU country.

Presently, the EU is developing a map that shows all potential threats to 5G across the European Union. The number of attack pathways is high.

For 5G to be successful, the underpinning security must be flawless. Executing on this is sure to take extensive analysis and planning. For more information on the EU’s 5G developments, please visit Business Daily.