Telecoms Sector Risk Assessment 2026
Based on the Austrian Cybersecurity Strategy (ÖSCS), the Austrian Program for the Protection of Critical Infrastructure (APCIP) and Art. 44 Par. 3 No. 1 of the Telecommunications Act 2021 (TKG 2021), the regulatory authority is conducting another risk analysis for the telecommunications sector.
Joint activities of the telecommunications and energy sectors
Based on the sector risk analyses in the energy sector and in the telecommunications sector, the two sectors initiated an institutionalised exchange on cyber security issues several years ago at the initiative of the two regulatory authorities e-Control Austria and Austrian Regulatory Authority for Broadcasting and Telecommunications (Rundfunk und Telekom Regulierungs-GmbH; RTR). Twice a year, industry representatives meet to discuss challenges in the respective areas and, in particular, to shed light on common risks, mutual dependencies and cascading effects.
BEREC Activities on Cybersecurity and Resilience of Electronic Communications Networks
The BEREC Cybersecurity and Resilience Working Group (CSR WG, see https://www.berec.europa.eu/en/working-groups/cybersecurity-and-resilience) supports the take-up of secure and resilient electronic communications networks while ensuring a smooth transition from legacy infrastructures to full gigabit connectivity. It collaborates closely with the NIS Cooperation Group (NIS CG), the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA), European Commission (EC) and telecoms national regulatory authorities (NRAs) on topics related to resilience and security of communication networks. The group contributes to best practice exchange and development of recommendations related to mitigation of threats stemming from natural or human-made causes.
NRA's maintain strong oversight of national communications infrastructures and engage directly with network operators day-to-day. This positions the group to actively contribute to European efforts aimed at enhancing the security and resilience of communication networks, ultimately benefiting both the economy and citizens.
The group collaborates with other European authorities to ensure coherent implementation of the cybersecurity regulatory framework. The group will also assess the impact of new technological developments on the security and resilience of networks and services in Europe.
The RTR as the Austrian National Regulatory Authority (NRA) is an active member of this working group and contributes its expertise on the national priority areas of 5G and cyber security to its work.