Using Exception Management to Prepare for NIS2 in the UK
The EU's NIS2 Directive covering cybersecurity for essential and digital service providers will influence the UK despite Brexit, as many SMEs trade with Europe or support EU entities. UK regulators are already considering similar measures. For SMEs, exception management is a way to prepare for stricter resilience standards ahead of time.
Why SMEs Should Care About NIS2
Critical Sectors and Supply Chain Impact
NIS2 focuses on critical sectors such as healthcare, energy, transport, and digital infrastructure. But its supply-chain emphasis means SMEs that provide services to larger firms could be held accountable for their security posture. Exceptions like not applying MFA everywhere or delaying vulnerability fixes become visible risks.
Steps for SMEs to Prepare
1. Map Critical Services
Identify where your SME supports larger organizations or essential sectors.
2. Document Gaps
Create an exception register for areas where controls are incomplete.
3. Apply Compensating Controls
Use monitoring, restricted access, or interim procedures while waiting for full solutions.
4. Integrate Exceptions into Risk Registers
NIS2 requires boards to take accountability for cyber risk.
The Payoff
Competitive Advantage
By adopting exception management now, UK SMEs can prove to clients and regulators that they are aligned with future cyber resilience requirements, increasing their attractiveness as trusted partners.