DETANGLE Project Helps Align EU Cybersecurity Rules
The DETANGLE cybersecurity project has launched in Athens with a clear goal. It aims to help critical sectors across the EU follow complex cybersecurity rules more effectively.
The project focuses on improving how organisations apply the NIS2 Directive. It also supports compliance across sectors such as energy, healthcare, transport, and digital infrastructure.
In addition, DETANGLE will assess how organisations meet two other major EU laws. These include the Cyber Resilience Act and the Cybersecurity Act.
Project Scope and Funding
DETANGLE is coordinated by ITML and operates with a budget of nearly €7 million. The European Cybersecurity Competence Centre co-funds the initiative.
Through this support, the project brings together technical expertise and policy guidance. As a result, organisations can better understand what the regulations require and how to meet them.
Why EU Cybersecurity Rules Matter
Cybersecurity rules are no longer optional for the EU. Instead, they form a core part of economic and security policy.
Because digital systems are deeply connected, a single weak point can create widespread damage. A cyber incident in one country can quickly affect others.
For this reason, shared standards help prevent weak links that attackers could exploit.
Protecting Sovereignty and Stability
By enforcing common rules, the EU protects its technological sovereignty. Strong security across all Member States reduces the risk of foreign interference.
At the same time, these rules support economic stability. Financial systems that can resist cyber attacks are less likely to suffer large-scale disruption.
In turn, this strengthens confidence across markets.
Building Trust With Businesses and Citizens
Compliance also sends a strong signal to consumers. Companies that follow EU cybersecurity rules show they take data protection seriously.
While fines can reach up to €10 million or 2 percent of global turnover, the real value lies elsewhere. Trust has become a competitive advantage in the digital economy.
Securing the Supply Chain
Since early 2026, the EU has paid closer attention to ICT supply chains. New rules promote security by design across digital products.
As a result, unsafe software and hidden access points become harder to introduce. This shifts cybersecurity from a reaction after incidents to a foundation built in from the start.
Challenges in Applying NIS2
Despite its importance, NIS2 creates real challenges. Many small and medium-sized firms lack the resources to adapt quickly.
National authorities also face limits in skills and technical capacity. Differences in how Member States apply rules add further complexity.
Other concerns include high compliance costs, weak incident reporting habits, and growing risks linked to AI, IoT, and future technologies.
How DETANGLE Addresses These Gaps
DETANGLE plans to tackle these issues through practical tools. One key output is an AI-driven incident management platform.
This system will improve threat detection and response. It will also support cooperation between organisations and authorities.
In parallel, the project will help reduce compliance costs, especially for SMEs.
Tools for Compliance and Enforcement
DETANGLE will develop an NIS2 Compliance Tracker. This tool will support gap analysis, reporting, monitoring, and training.
In addition, the project will offer a certification support framework. This includes self-checks and access to updated guidance.
The initiative will also create a toolkit for enforcing the Cyber Resilience Act. This will focus on compliance checks, accreditation, and risk alerts.
Strengthening Cyber Resilience Across Europe
Overall, DETANGLE aims to raise cyber resilience across the EU. It seeks to improve cooperation between countries and sectors.
By offering clear tools and shared solutions, the project helps organisations meet their obligations with greater confidence.
