Minister orders higher education to improve digital security

Dutch Minister of Education Eppo Bruins has announced that universities and universities of applied sciences will be required to enhance their digital security under the new Cybersecurity Law. In a letter to the Dutch House of Representatives, Bruins stated that this step aims to better protect the institutions from rising cyber threats.

The move comes in response to increasing concerns about cyberattacks targeting educational institutions, particularly from foreign actors. Bruins emphasized that universities and colleges are increasingly at risk of being targeted by hackers. He acknowledged that this new requirement would add extra workload for the institutions, but noted that much of the law aligns with existing cybersecurity measures already in place at these schools.

Bruins expressed understanding of the additional work that this law would impose on the institutions, explaining that he wanted to provide them with enough time to prepare. As a result, the schools will not have to immediately comply with all aspects of the law but will have an extended period to meet certain security standards.

The new law will offer support from the government, including assistance from cybersecurity experts. Bruins reassured institutions that they will not be left to face the new requirements alone, providing a collaborative approach.