Key GDPR requirements:
• Small Business owners must secure personal data to protect against breaches.
• Data collection must have a lawful basis (e.g., consent, contract).
NIS2 vs. NIS1
The Network and Information Security Directive (NIS), implemented in 2018, was designed to ensure the security of critical infrastructure providers across the EU. The NIS2 Directive, which builds on NIS1, significantly broadens the scope of affected entities and tightens security requirements.
Key differences between NIS1 and NIS2:
Broader Scope: NIS2 applies to a wider range of sectors, including digital infrastructure, health, and public administration.
Increased Responsibilities: Companies under NIS2 must have stronger incident response protocols, risk management measures, and supply chain security.
Stricter Enforcement: NIS2 introduces harsher penalties for non-compliance and clearer rules on reporting security incidents.
UK Small Businesses providing essential services (e.g., utilities, transport, healthcare) must align with similar regulations under the UK NIS Regulations, which mirror NIS2.
ISO 27001
ISO 27001 is an international standard for information security management systems (ISMS). It provides a systematic approach to managing sensitive company information so that it remains secure. This standard is voluntary but widely adopted due to its comprehensive framework, which helps Small Businesses safeguard data through risk management, security controls, and continuous monitoring.
ISO 27001 requirements include:
Risk assessments to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
Security controls covering policies, technology, and employee behaviour.
UK Small Business Compliance Obligations
For Small Business owners in the UK, complying with these Cybersecurity regulations can be challenging but essential. Failure to comply can result in severe penalties, reputational damage, and loss of customer trust.
Key obligations include:
• Individuals have rights, such as the right to access and erase their data.
For Small Business owners, GDPR compliance means adopting robust data protection policies and practices, from secure storage solutions to employee training.
