ACS Revises Cybersecurity Protection Recommendations for Critical Information Infrastructure, Focusing on 3 Core Areas

(CNA, Taipei, May 19, by reporter Chao Min-ya) Facing the threat of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure and to ensure the uninterrupted operation of essential services for citizens such as water, electricity, transportation, and healthcare, the Ministry of Digital Affairs' Administration for Cyber Security (ACS) announced today the completion of the revised "Critical Information Infrastructure Cybersecurity Protection Recommendations." The revision focuses on three key areas, including aligning with international standards and adding alternative solutions, to strengthen protection mechanisms and build a more comprehensive national "digital shield." The ACS issued a press release explaining that the revision of the "Critical Information Infrastructure Cybersecurity Protection Recommendations" primarily focuses on three core areas to better align critical infrastructure protection with practical needs. The ACS pointed out that the first area is aligning with international standards. By referencing the latest international standards, such as ISA/IEC 62443, the protection specifications for critical infrastructure equipment control systems will be comprehensively upgraded, enabling Taiwan's infrastructure to withstand modern hacker attacks. The second area involves adding "alternative solutions (compensating controls)" for legacy equipment within critical infrastructure that cannot be immediately replaced or repaired. Similar to adding a security lock to an existing window, this involves strengthening peripheral protection and management measures to ensure there are no defensive vulnerabilities. The ACS stated that the third area is the clear delineation of responsibilities among facility owners (regulating authorities), system integrators, and component suppliers. In simple terms, this clarifies the division of duties regarding "who is responsible for repairs and who is responsible for management," preventing buck-passing due to unclear responsibilities during an incident and improving restoration efficiency. The ACS noted that the "Critical Information Infrastructure Cybersecurity Protection Recommendations" will serve as a blueprint for various ministries managing facilities for water, electricity, transportation, healthcare, and telecommunications. Each agency can make adjustments based on the needs of the critical infrastructure under its jurisdiction. The ACS emphasized that the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure is vital for social stability and national security. Through the protection framework provided by the recommendations, more resilient public services can be achieved, effectively reducing the impact of cybersecurity incidents on public life and forming an important pillar of the overall national strategy. (Editor: Huang Kuo-lun) 1150519