The Senate Chamber has approved the cybersecurity bill with 80 in favor, 3 against, and 57 abstentions. The measure, already approved by the Chamber of Deputies, now becomes law. The groups of M5s, Pd, Italia viva, and Azione abstained while Avs voted against the provision. Among the measures introduced is the strengthening of penalties for cybercrimes and the obligation for administrations to report attacks within 24 hours and to have a cybersecurity manager. The Undersecretary Alfredo Mantovano expressed appreciation for the final approval of the government’s cybersecurity bill, stating that the entire national security system, especially in the cyber domain, now has more effective tools to repel attacks.
Mantovano highlighted the expansion of the entities required to strengthen their defenses, the establishment of an alert procedure and collaboration with the Cybersecurity Agency for remedial actions, and the clarification of intervention procedures for cases of overlapping jurisdiction, such as between Acn and the judicial police. The bill also reinforces action against cybercrime by identifying new criminal offenses and utilizing more effective investigative tools. Mantovano emphasized that responsibility now shifts from Parliament, which effectively approved the bill a few months after its introduction by the Council of Ministers, to all stakeholders in the cyber system, each fulfilling their respective roles.
During the discussion in the Aula, Senator Walter Verini of the Democratic Party noted that the cybersecurity bill could potentially remain a list of measures, highlighting problems and potential solutions but risking insufficient action. Verini criticized the government and majority for approving the law with no additional financial provisions. The bill is considered a flagship measure that addresses key issues and offers some solutions but may not fully address the complexities of cybersecurity threats. Despite this concern, the bill has been passed and is now law, providing a framework for enhancing cybersecurity measures and responding to cyber threats in a more effective manner.
The approval of the cybersecurity bill represents a significant step in strengthening Italy’s cybersecurity capabilities and addressing the growing threats in the digital domain. By introducing stricter penalties for cybercrimes, requiring timely reporting of attacks, and appointing cybersecurity managers within administrations, the government aims to enhance the country’s resilience against cyber threats. The collaborative approach with opposition parties and the involvement of various stakeholders in the cybersecurity system are seen as positive aspects of the bill, ensuring a more comprehensive and coordinated response to cyber incidents.
Moving forward, the implementation of the cybersecurity law will be crucial in effectively protecting Italy’s critical infrastructure, government systems, and private enterprises from cyber threats. The focus on expanding the scope of entities required to bolster their defenses, improving collaboration with the Cybersecurity Agency, and enhancing investigative tools for combating cybercrime reflects a proactive approach to cybersecurity. With the support of various political groups and the active involvement of all actors in the cyber ecosystem, Italy is taking important steps towards strengthening its cybersecurity posture and safeguarding its digital assets against malicious actors.
