NIS2 Directive: What Critical Infrastructure Operators and Their Service Providers Must Do Now to Avoid Fines

Erkut Yildirim
July 21, 2025
5 min read

Cybersecurity Becomes Mandatory – Are You Prepared?

The threat landscape in cyberspace is escalating daily. Phishing attacks, ransomware incidents, and data breaches increasingly affect companies of all sizes. In response, the EU has introduced the NIS2 Directive – a significantly stricter cybersecurity regulation. Ignoring these new requirements can lead to severe penalties. But what does this mean for your company specifically? And how can you prepare? Below is an overview of the steps you should take now to avoid costly fines.

What is the NIS2 Directive?

The Network and Information Security Directive 2 (NIS2) is an EU-wide regulation that obliges companies to meet higher cybersecurity standards. It significantly expands the original NIS1 Directive and applies to a much broader range of organizations. The goal is to strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructure against cyberattacks.

Who is Affected by NIS2?

The new directive doesn't just apply to large corporations. It also affects medium-sized businesses in the following sectors:

  • Critical infrastructure (e.g., energy, water, transport)
  • Digital service providers (cloud providers, data centers)
  • Healthcare and pharmaceutical industries
  • Manufacturers of ICT products and services
  • Public administrations

Previously, cybersecurity requirements often applied only to large enterprises. With NIS2, any organization with 50+ employees and an annual turnover or balance sheet exceeding €10 million must take action.

What Are the NIS2 Requirements?

Companies must plan and implement extensive security measures, including:

  • Risk Management – Identify and mitigate cyber risks
  • Incident Reporting – Security incidents must be reported within 24 hours
  • Access Controls – Implementation of multi-factor authentication (MFA)
  • Security Policies – Clear guidelines for all employees, especially IT departments
  • Supply Chain Security – Protection from attacks via insecure third-party vendors
  • Emergency Management – Plans for handling cyberattacks

Why Is NIS2 So Important?

Many companies underestimate how costly a cyberattack can be. According to recent studies, a single ransomware attack can result in millions of euros in damages—not only from ransom payments but also from operational downtime, reputational harm, and fines.

With NIS2, cybersecurity becomes a legal obligation. Non-compliance may lead to fines of up to €10 million or 2% of global annual turnover.

Action Required: How to Implement NIS2

Many companies are unprepared for these new requirements. Here are concrete steps you should consider now:

  • Assess your current IT security status – Where are the vulnerabilities?
  • Develop a cybersecurity strategy – What actions need to be taken?
  • Train employees – Raise awareness about phishing & social engineering
  • Create and test emergency plans – Who does what during a real attack?
  • Bring in external experts – Cybersecurity is complex. Professional guidance saves time and costs.
  • Why You Need Professional Support

    NIS2 introduces significant organizational and technical challenges. IT departments are often overstretched and not specialized in the new compliance requirements. Professional consulting helps avoid poor decisions and security gaps.

    An experienced cybersecurity service provider can:

    • Conduct a thorough security analysis
    • Develop tailored solutions for your organization
    • Offer staff training and awareness programs
    • Create emergency and incident response plans
    • Ensure your organization remains compliant with the law

    ✅ Conclusion: See NIS2 as an Opportunity

    Don’t view the NIS2 Directive as just another bureaucratic burden. See it as an opportunity to protect your business against cyber threats and avoid major financial losses from downtime or penalties.

    Those who act now:

    • Minimize risk
    • Protect their business
    • Avoid costly fines

    Looking for your right external partner to tackle NIS2 compliance?

    Talk to our team of experts!

    Erkut Yildirim
    July 21, 2025
    5 min read
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