The EU NIS2 Directive (2023/2024) and the European Accessibility Act (EAA) (enforceable by June 28, 2025) are critical pieces of legislation affecting businesses across Europe. Non-compliance can lead to significant legal, financial, and reputational risks.
This guide helps businesses—especially non-technical users—understand, prepare, and implement practical steps for compliance.
Part 1: EU NIS2 Directive – Cybersecurity Obligations
What is NIS2?
The NIS2 Directive strengthens cybersecurity rules across critical sectors in the EU. It applies to:
- Essential entities: Energy, transport, health, banking, water supply, etc.
- Important entities: Digital providers, manufacturing of critical products, postal services, etc.
Who Must Comply?
Any medium or large company (50+ employees or €10M+ turnover) operating in the EU in critical sectors—even if headquartered elsewhere.
Key Requirements
| Area | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Cybersecurity Risk Management | Identify, assess, and mitigate risks. |
| Incident Reporting | Report significant incidents within 24 hours. |
| Business Continuity | Ensure resilience and disaster recovery. |
| Supply Chain Security | Vet and manage third-party risks. |
| Governance | Assign accountability at the management level. |
Tools & Resources for NIS2 Compliance
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ENISA NIS2 Self-Assessment Tool ???? ENISA Tool
Free tool by the EU Cybersecurity Agency to assess your preparedness.
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Cybersecurity Maturity Assessment Tools like the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO/IEC 27001 audits, or Cyber Essentials (UK) offer structured assessments.
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Threat Intelligence Platforms Consider CrowdStrike, Microsoft Defender for Business, or MISP (open-source) to enhance threat awareness.
-
Incident Response Testing Conduct tabletop exercises or use platforms like RangeForce or AttackIQ.
Part 2: European Accessibility Act (EAA) – Digital Inclusion
What is the EAA?
The European Accessibility Act mandates that digital products and services must be accessible to people with disabilities by June 28, 2025. This includes:
- Websites and mobile apps
- E-commerce services
- Banking interfaces
- Transport services
- ATMs, kiosks, and e-readers
Who Must Comply?
Applies to all businesses providing services in the EU. Small enterprises (<10 employees or <€2M turnover) are exempt, but encouraged to comply.
Key Requirements
| Area | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Web & Mobile Accessibility | Must meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards. |
| Product Design | ATMs, e-readers, and ticketing machines must be perceivable, operable, and understandable. |
| Communication | Alternative formats for contracts and customer service. |
| Compatibility | Support assistive technologies like screen readers. |
Tools & Online Compliance Checkers
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WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool ???? WAVE Tool
Analyze accessibility issues on any webpage.
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Accessibility Insights by Microsoft ???? Accessibility Insights
Free automated checks for web and desktop applications.
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Google Lighthouse (Built-in to Chrome DevTools)
Offers accessibility audits with actionable recommendations.
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Siteimprove or Axe Monitor (Enterprise)
Advanced scanning, monitoring, and reporting on WCAG violations.
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WCAG Quick Reference ???? WCAG 2.1 Checklist
Official guideline reference for developers and designers.
Compliance Roadmap (for General Users)
1. Assess Current Compliance
- Use NIS2 self-assessment tools.
- Run WCAG accessibility scans on your website and mobile apps.
2. Document Policies & Assign Roles
- Draft cybersecurity & data handling policies.
- Nominate a cybersecurity and accessibility officer.
3. Implement Remedial Changes
- Patch systems, secure networks, and update content to WCAG standards.
- Ensure all product updates meet EAA criteria.
4. Test, Train & Monitor
- Conduct phishing simulations and accessibility usability tests.
- Educate staff on NIS2 responsibilities and digital inclusion principles.
5. Report & Respond
- Create a 24-hour incident response mechanism.
- Make accessibility feedback forms available to users.
Legal Risks of Non-Compliance
| Directive | Penalty |
|---|---|
| NIS2 | Up to €10 million or 2% of global turnover |
| EAA | National-level fines, product bans, legal action |
Additional Resources
- ???? ENISA Official NIS2 Guide
- ???? European Commission on EAA
- ???? W3C WCAG Documentation
- ???? EU Digital Services Act (DSA)
Summary
Both NIS2 and EAA are not just regulatory burdens—they are business opportunities to enhance cybersecurity, customer trust, and digital inclusivity. Proactive compliance today protects your business tomorrow.
For technical implementation or audits, businesses are encouraged to consult certified cybersecurity and accessibility professionals.
