The European Union has warned in a risk analysis of an increasing number of cyberattacks. These involve attacks primarily supported by non-European countries using equipment necessary for the 5G network.
The EU calls it “crucial” that risks in establishing new 5G networks are thoroughly examined. “Potential attackers of 5G networks are mainly non-European countries and hackers receiving state support,” the statement says.
In March this year, the European Commission decided that all countries must prepare a risk analysis covering possible threats and vulnerabilities for the new 5G network, which will be rolled out from 2020 in the first member states.
The indirect trigger for the investigation were accusations by the US against Huawei, alleging it was spying for the Chinese government. No evidence for this has ever been disclosed, and Huawei has always denied the claims. The EU report does not mention any specific countries or companies.
In July, Dutch Minister Ferd Grapperhaus (Justice and Security) already announced that Dutch telecom companies are allowed to use Huawei equipment. Norway also indicated that Huawei will not be excluded from building this new network, which promises more speed and capacity.
The EU emphasizes the importance of establishing a secure 5G network. “This technology will form the backbone of our society and economy in the coming years. This concerns not only the billions of connected devices, but also banks, energy supply, and healthcare will operate with it. It is essential that this sensitive information is not abused.”