13 December 2021
Radar - December 2021 – 8 of 10 Insights
Security of communications networks has been at the top of the agenda this year.
In March, ENISA published new guidelines for how and when security authorities can report security incidents to ENISA, the EC and other authorities in compliance with the European Electronic Communications Code. The guidance also covers thresholds for annual reporting and an incident reporting template.
The Telecommunications Security Act 2021 received Royal Assent in November. It includes:
Specific security requirements will be published in secondary legislation and Codes of Practice.
In July, the Law Commission published its proposals for the reform of communications offences with the aim of protecting individuals from serious harms caused by online abuse, and protecting the right to freedom of expression. The most significant recommendations are:
Ofcom launched a consultation reviewing the functioning of the UK's net neutrality rules. These are being looked at in light of changes since 2016, including the emergence of new technologies, the growth of IoT and the launch of 5G, increased use of cloud and resulting increased capacity demands. Depending on the results of the review, changes may be made to the rules and new guidance issued on compliance. Ofcom intends to publish its finding in Spring 2022.
The Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Bill was published in November. Part 2 deals with rights to install and maintain digital communications infrastructure on public and private land. It builds on the Electronic Communications Code and aims to support and encourage faster and more collaborative negotiations and encourage faster access to Code rights through the courts if necessary. It will help ensure 5G rollout.
The Code will be amended to introduce rules around negotiation of agreements and dispute resolution, and to allow installation and maintenance of infrastructure regardless of when it was installed (subject to meeting certain criteria).
13 December 2021
13 December 2021
13 December 2021
13 December 2021