Security of electronic communications

Telecommunications networks are critical infrastructures requiring a high level of security. The BIPT plays a key role in this context. In 2024, the BIPT contributed to the implementation of the Act of 17 February 2022 introducing additional security measures for the provision of 5G mobile services. It also organised several workshops with operators to help them carry out their risk analyses, by defining the methodology and raising awareness regarding the targeted threats. Moreover, the BIPT inspects each year critical infrastructure operators in order to remedy any shortcomings identified and, ultimately, to improve the level of security. As the sectoral authority and sectoral inspection service for the digital infrastructure sector in Belgium, the BIPT cooperates with the CCB to implement the NIS2 rules in Belgium. It handles security incidents via its duty team that is available 24/7, cooperates with security services regarding major cases and submits an annual report to the European Commission and ENISA.

The BIPT also coordinates the antifraud working group and monitors the results of projects funded within the framework of the recovery plan, leading to the detection and blocking of 38 million fraudulent text messages in 2024. Furthermore, the BIPT also handles the procedures for applying for a security advice regarding the sensitive personnel of operators. Its methods were adapted to the transfer of competence to the federal police. Finally, the BIPT participated in analyses on the continuity of emergency services (101 and 112) in case of a power blackout and collaborated with various bodies to highlight the telecoms sector’s dependence on the energy sector and the problems this creates.