In the current digital environment, computer security has become an unavoidable priority for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), private companies and government entities. The increasing dependence on technology in all spheres of life has accentuated the need to protect digital assets and preserve the integrity of data in general. In this context, the legal perspective emerges as an essential component to guarantee adequate protection in the field of asset security.
We will explore the importance of taking a legal approach to cybersecurity protection, examining the main legal and regulatory aspects that influence this field and highlighting best practices to ensure adequate protection of systems and data in an increasingly digitalized environment. .
Cybersecurity Regulatory Environment in Ecuador
To meet our goal of analyzing cybersecurity from a legal perspective, it is crucial that regulations provide a high degree of predictability. Considering the regulatory, regulatory and institutional environment, we present the highlights of essential regulations and policies related to infrastructure, digital capabilities and digitalization of both the public and private sectors.
- Constitution of the Republic of Ecuador: As a supreme norm, the 2008 Constitution establishes the right to free communication, access to information and communication technologies, and the protection of personal data.
- Organic Telecommunications Law: Its objective is to guarantee compliance with the rights and duties of service providers and users.
- Organic Law on Protection of Personal Data: Establishes principles for the management and hosting of personal data, essential when considering data management in the cloud.
- Organic Law for Digital and Audiovisual Transformation: Aimed at promoting the global digital economy and strengthening the effective use of digital technologies.
- Cybersecurity Policy 006-2021: Recognizes the need to strengthen capabilities to identify, manage and mitigate cybersecurity risks.
- Ecuador's National Cybersecurity Strategy: Establishes a framework to achieve specific and clear objectives for the period 2022-2025.
- ISO 27001 Information Security Standard: Contributes to the Information Security Management System to protect information against threats.
- Ministerial Agreement on Government Information Security Scheme (EGSI): Implements the Information Security Management System in the Public Sector.
- ISO/IEC 27002:2022 Information Security, Cybersecurity and Privacy Protection: Provides best practices and control objectives related to cybersecurity.
- Comprehensive Organic Penal Code: Contains laws that punish cybercrimes with penalties of deprivation of liberty.
Analysis and Application of Regulations in the Context of Cybersecurity
This analysis identifies the regulatory diversity in Ecuador on cybersecurity, information security and data protection, addressing various laws, ministerial agreements and applicable policies. It is essential to consider this legal framework to ensure adequate protection of systems and data in a digitalized environment.
Conclusions and Recommendations for Environmental Surveillance
In conclusion, the legal guidelines on cybersecurity and data protection seek to guarantee the security and privacy of information, in line with best international practices. It is recommended to establish a Government Information Security Scheme supported by computer security incident response services (CSIRT) and security operations (SOC), as well as provide training on the importance of cybersecurity to all collaborators of the institutions. Collaboration with strategic partners specialized in cybersecurity, such as CEDIA's CSIRT and SOC services, can be essential to strengthen the overall security posture and protect institutions' digital assets in the face of growing cyber threats.
