BRUSSELS – Increased broadband take up in Europe is linked to e-communications providers’ continuous commitment – through existing legislation, self-regulatory initiatives and innovation efforts – to offer optimal security of online services as well as high level of data protection, says ETNO on the occasion of the European Safer Internet Day.
“Privacy and security have always been key priorities for European telecommunications operators, who have been proactively involved in industry initiatives to reinforce security, such as guidelines on safer mobile internet for children. The signature of new industry guidelines today shows that as we move towards a next generation network environment and new innovative services in the fields of e-commerce or e-health, self-regulatory solutions offer more flexibility to adapt to new challenges”, said Michael Bartholomew, ETNO Director.
ETNO members, as Europe’s main providers of innovative fixed and mobile broadband services, are continuously working to improve security in their networks and services beyond current regulations. Security has become a key competitive element of differentiation in the market.
As the complexity of networks increases, maintaining a sufficient level of network integrity and security also becomes more complex. However, ETNO believes that, due to rapidly changing technologies, security measures should be chosen individually by each operator rather than being imposed through new regulation.
Likewise, instead of monitoring the implementation of technical security measures, national regulators should focus on fostering exchange of examples of market-driven solutions and promoting international cooperation on issues such as spam.
ETNO members are ensuring that security is an in-built feature of their products to ensure safer internet use, in particular by most vulnerable parts of the population, such as:
- Parental control features incorporated in Internet access services, IP TV and Video on Demand offerings;
- Classification of Internet content allowing parents to filter and block inappropriate content for youngsters;
- Restricted access for minors to mobile adult premium content;
- Applications ensuring security of online transactions.
“Educating end-users about basic security measures and raising awareness about potentially risky behavior remains the most effective way of increasing online safety.
Through education
campaigns, both industry players and public authorities have a role to play to create a culture of secure and responsible use of Internet”, concluded Bartholomew.
For more information, please contact: Thierry Dieu, ETNO Communications Manager Tel: (32-2) 219 32 42 Fax: (32-2) 219 64 12 E-mail: dieu@etno.be
ETNO’s 43 member companies from 36 European countries represent a significant part of total ICT activity in Europe. They account for an aggregate annual turnover of more than 250 billion Euros and employ over one million people across Europe. ETNO companies are the main drivers of broadband and are committed to its continual growth in Europe.