E-Paper
DoT lands telcos with network security
The department of telecommunications (DoT) has put the onus of securing telecom networks on the operators.
The department of telecommunications (DoT) has put the onus of securing telecom networks on the operators.
DoT on Thursday amended the national long distance (NLD) and international long distance (ILD) licences incorporating a clause that makes the operators responsible for the security of the networks.
If a security breach is detected in equipment purchase, the operators will be imposed a penalty of R50 crore.
In addition to this, a penalty of 100 per cent of contract value shall be levied by the licensor, DoT said in an amendment sent to NLD and ILD operators.
“The Licensee shall have well-outlined organisational policy on security and security management of their networks and shall be completely and totally responsible for security of their networks,” DoT has said.
In the event of a security breach being detected after deployment/installation of equipment, the relevant equipment shall be taken out of service and penalty imposed.
The amendments were also sent to the respective operators last month. DoT may also blacklist the vendor from supply deals with Indian operators.
NLD and ILD operators will have to get their networks audited by an internationally accredited network audit and certification agency selected by the licensor.
The licensing conditions were amended amid concerns raised by security agencies.
DoT also said the operators shall work towards a phased plan to take over the maintenance of the equipment, and dependence on foreign engineers shall be minimal 2-3 years from now.
