Exploring the EU Cybersecurity Certification Scheme: A Guide to Common Criteria

What is the EU Cybersecurity Certification Scheme?

The EU Cybersecurity Certification Scheme is designed to simplify and harmonize cybersecurity certifications across the EU. With varying national-level rules and regulations creating barriers to trade and inconsistencies in security standards, the framework provides EU-wide schemes that establish a single, trustworthy approach.

How Does It Differ from Pre-existing Systems?

The EU Cybersecurity Certification Framework represents a significant shift from pre-existing systems in several ways:

1. Unified Approach Across Member States: Before this framework, individual EU nations operated their own certification schemes, each with unique standards, evaluation criteria, and assurance levels. This created barriers for businesses operating in multiple countries. The EU framework establishes a single, consistent set of assurance levels.
   1. Basic
   2. Substantial
   3. High

These are accepted across all EU member states, simplifying compliance and fostering cross-border trade.

2. Alignment with Global Standards: While rooted in European priorities, the framework integrates globally recognized standards like ISO/IEC 15408 (Common Criteria). This dual alignment ensures compatibility with international benchmarks while addressing the specific needs of the EU market.
3. Voluntary Certification with Legislative Influence: Unlike some national systems where cybersecurity compliance certifications may be sector-specific or mandatory, the EU’s approach is largely voluntary. However, upcoming legislation like the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) might mandate certification for specific product categories, blending flexibility with regulatory enforcement.

Examples of Technical Specifications for Certification

Certification under the EU Cybersecurity Certification Framework requires that products and services meet stringent technical standards tailored to their category. These specifications serve as benchmarks to ensure that certified solutions align with the EU’s security and performance expectations. Below are examples of these standards and their implications across various product types:

Network Devices (e.g., Firewalls, Routers, and Switches):

• Threat Resilience: Devices must demonstrate resistance against known attack vectors, including DDoS attacks, buffer overflows, and man-in-the-middle attempts.
• Secure Updates: Firmware and software updates must utilize secure delivery methods, such as signed updates with verification mechanisms to prevent tampering.
• Encryption Protocols: Compliance with robust encryption standards like TLS 1.3 ensures secure data transmission.

Data Storage Solutions:

• Encryption Standards: Certified devices must adhere to advanced encryption algorithms, such as AES-256, to protect stored data from unauthorized access.
• Key Management: Secure key storage and lifecycle management are critical, with standards ensuring encryption keys are never exposed or transmitted in plaintext.
• Data Erasure Protocols: Secure erasure techniques are required under the EU Cybersecurity Certification Scheme for cloud services to ensure that data is irretrievable after deletion.

Biometric Authentication Systems:

• Anti-Spoofing Measures: Systems must pass rigorous spoof-resistance tests, ensuring robustness against forged fingerprints, voice recordings, or facial images.
• Interoperability: High assurance systems must integrate seamlessly with multi-factor authentication frameworks.
• Performance Benchmarks: Certification includes tests for accuracy (false accept/reject rates) and response time under high usage scenarios.

Secure Elements (e.g., Smart Cards, Payment Systems, and Passports):

• Hardware Security Modules (HSMs): Certified secure elements often include HSMs that comply with FIPS 140-3 or similar standards.
• Tamper Resistance: Physical and logical tamper resistance is assessed through penetration testing and fault injection methods.

Critical Software Systems (e.g., SIEM and IDS/IDP Platforms):

• Logging and Monitoring: Systems must include comprehensive logging mechanisms that are resistant to manipulation or deletion.
• Threat Detection: Platforms undergo rigorous testing to demonstrate their ability to detect and respond to emerging cyber threats in real time.
• Access Control Mechanisms: Robust identity and access management (IAM) controls are evaluated to ensure that only authorized personnel can interact with the system.

EU Cybersecurity Certification Scheme on Common Criteria (EUCC)

One of the flagship schemes under the framework is the EU Cybersecurity Certification Scheme on Common Criteria (EUCC). Based on the globally recognized Common Criteria standard (ISO/IEC 15408), the EUCC builds on nearly three decades of expertise in certifying ICT products in Europe.

The Origin and Role of Common Criteria

The Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation, or Common Criteria (CC), was introduced in the late 1990s to unify multiple national standards for IT security evaluations. It became an international standard in the form of ISO/IEC 15408, providing a consistent and globally accepted methodology for evaluating the security features of IT products. The CC standard is structured into three parts:

1. Introduction and General Model: Explains the evaluation framework and terminology.
2. Security Functional Requirements: Lists security features (e.g., authentication, encryption) that products can implement.
3. Security Assurance Requirements: Specifies the evaluation criteria to verify that security features are implemented correctly.

This structure allows businesses to define their security needs in a document called the Security Target (ST). The evaluation process ensures that the product meets the requirements laid out in the ST and complies with specific assurance levels (EAL1 to EAL7).

The EUCC scheme adapts this international standard to the EU’s unique needs by aligning certification with the EU Cybersecurity Act. This ensures compatibility with global standards while addressing European priorities, such as cross-border trade and regional compliance requirements.

What Does the EUCC Cover?

The EUCC applies to the cybersecurity lifecycle of ICT products. Examples include:

• Biometric systems.
• Firewalls (both hardware and software).
• Detection and response platforms.
• Routers, switches, and specialized software like SIEM and IDS/IDP systems.
• Secure data storage solutions.
• Smart cards and secure elements found in passports and payment systems.

Starting February 27, 2025, vendors can voluntarily certify their products under the EUCC. This certification will streamline trade across EU Member States and provide a clear security benchmark for buyers.

Is EUCC Certification Mandatory?

No. EUCC certification is voluntary, meaning businesses are not required to certify their products unless specific legislation mandates it. For example, the upcoming Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) might require certain types of products to achieve EUCC certification to meet regulatory compliance.

Voluntary certification allows businesses to choose whether to pursue EUCC credentials based on their market strategy. While it’s not legally required for all products, obtaining certification can provide significant advantages in terms of trust and market access.

The Certification Process

Achieving EUCC certification involves several steps:

1. Define the Scope: Businesses identify the product or service to be certified and determine the desired assurance level.
2. Prepare Documentation: This includes security targets, design documents, and operational user guides.
3. Engage an Evaluation Facility: Businesses work with an accredited testing lab to assess the product against EUCC criteria.
4. Testing and Assessment: The lab conducts rigorous tests to ensure compliance with the required assurance level.
5. Approval and Certification: The results are submitted to a national certification body, which issues the EUCC certificate if all criteria are met.

Impact on Non-EU Businesses

For non-EU businesses, the EUCC presents both challenges and opportunities:

Opportunities:

• Certification opens access to the lucrative EU market, where a single certification is valid across all member states.
• It provides a competitive edge by demonstrating a commitment to high security standards.

Challenges:

• Non-EU vendors must navigate EU-specific requirements, which may differ from those in their home countries.
• Additional investment in certification processes and compliance documentation may be needed.

Despite these challenges, the EUCC creates a level playing field for businesses globally, ensuring that products meet stringent security standards and fostering trust among European consumers and enterprises.

Union Rolling Work Programme (URWP): A Strategic Vision

The Union Rolling Work Programme (URWP) outlines the EU’s strategic priorities for cybersecurity certification. It’s not just about keeping up with current needs but also about anticipating future challenges and opportunities.

Key Focus Areas:

• Emerging Legislative Needs: Supporting the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) and the European Digital Identity Regulation.
• High-Priority Certifications: ID wallets, managed security services, and cryptographic mechanisms.
• Industrial Automation and Control Systems: Addressing cybersecurity in critical infrastructure.

The URWP ensures that the EU stays ahead in addressing cybersecurity risks, fostering innovation, and enhancing global competitiveness.

How Will Healthcare Cybersecurity Certification be Affected?

The updated EU Common Criteria will undoubtedly impact healthcare cybersecurity certification, necessitating stronger safeguards for patient data and more rigorous assessments of medical systems. With healthcare becoming increasingly digitized, organizations must now align with these evolving standards to ensure compliance and maintain trust in their cybersecurity posture.

Key Players in the Certification Landscape

The framework’s success hinges on the collaboration of various groups:

• European Cybersecurity Certification Group (ECCG): Comprising national cybersecurity authorities, the ECCG ensures consistent implementation of the certification framework.
• Stakeholder Cybersecurity Certification Group (SCCG): This group advises the EU Commission and ENISA on strategic certification issues and contributes to the Union Rolling Work Programme.

These groups play a vital role in maintaining the framework’s integrity and relevance in an ever-changing digital landscape.

What This Means for Businesses and Consumers

The EU Cybersecurity Certification Scheme benefits both businesses and consumers by promoting trust and transparency.

For Businesses:

• Simplified Compliance: A single certification valid across all EU Member States reduces costs and complexity.
• Competitive Edge: Certification demonstrates a commitment to cybersecurity, enhancing brand reputation.
• Market Expansion: Easier cross-border trade opportunities.

For Consumers:

• Informed Choices: Assurance levels (basic, substantial, high) provide clarity on product security.
• Trust in Technology: Confidence that certified products meet stringent EU standards.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the EU Cybersecurity Certification Scheme offers numerous benefits, it’s not without challenges:

Challenges:

• Voluntary Nature: Initial adoption might be slow, particularly among smaller businesses.
• Awareness: Educating stakeholders about the framework’s benefits is crucial.

Opportunities:

• Expanding Scope: Beyond ICT products, future certifications could cover AI systems, quantum technologies, and more.
• Global Influence: As the EU sets high cybersecurity standards, it could shape international norms and practices.

Final Word: Certify with Confidence

The EU Cybersecurity Certification Scheme is a significant step toward harmonizing European cybersecurity standards. For businesses, it simplifies compliance and builds trust with customers. It offers consumers peace of mind in an increasingly complex digital world. As cybersecurity challenges evolve, the EU Cybersecurity Certification framework ensures that Europe remains at the forefront of innovation and resilience—proving that trust and security can go hand in hand.Looking for a streamlined way to align with EU cybersecurity standards? Centraleyes offers an innovative platform to simplify compliance, manage risks, and maintain control over your cybersecurity journey. Let us help you navigate these frameworks with confidence and ease.