A key panel at GISEC 2025, titled ‘Connectivity Panel: Securing the Expanded Attack Surface of 5G Networks,’ delved into the cybersecurity challenges emerging from 5G and edge computing. The discussion focused on critical issues such as expanding attack surfaces, data privacy, supply chain security, and strategies for creating a secure 5G ecosystem.
Cybersecurity experts from Switzerland, Portugal, Egypt, Canada, and the UAE gathered to discuss how resilience needs to evolve alongside growing connectivity. The panel was moderated by Orhan Osmani, Head of the Cybersecurity Division at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), who oversees global cybersecurity initiatives across 193 member states.
The conversation began with a reference to the recent power outage in Europe, which disrupted communication networks, triggering a need for stronger security measures to safeguard critical infrastructure. The panel analyzed approaches to preventing such incidents and ensuring the stability of essential systems.
Key Insights from Panelists:
Portugal: João Filipe Alves, Head of Security at the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ANACOM), emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of critical infrastructure. He advocated for stronger cross-sector cooperation and stressed that telecom, energy, and IT systems must work together to ensure resilience during power outages. Alves also highlighted Portugal’s establishment of a Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) for telecom security and the importance of technical expertise in securing customer data.
Egypt: Dr. Ahmed Abdel Hafez, Executive Cybersecurity Consultant to the CEO of Egypt’s National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (NTRA), discussed the country’s efforts to integrate security by design and develop a cybersecurity framework for 5G. He highlighted national initiatives, including awareness campaigns and international cyber drills, aimed at improving incident recovery. Dr. Hafez also addressed the importance of personal data protection and the establishment of a dedicated privacy protection center.
Canada: Goran Novkovic, Director of Industrial Cybersecurity at the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), underscored the importance of securing 5G-driven critical infrastructure. He stressed the need for operational visibility to analyze data from connected systems and convert it into actionable knowledge. Novkovic noted the necessity for closer collaboration between operational teams and cybersecurity teams to ensure comprehensive protection.
UAE: Lt. Colonel Dr. Hamad Al Nuaimi, Head of Telecommunication at Abu Dhabi Police GHQ, discussed the UAE’s approach to securing mobile networks, particularly for public safety and emergency services. Al Nuaimi emphasized the role of both public and private sectors in protecting infrastructure, highlighting the UAE government’s commitment to fostering collaboration to address the rising threat of cyberattacks.
The panel concluded by emphasizing the importance of international cooperation to standardize service delivery, pricing, and cybersecurity protocols. The recent power outage in Europe has highlighted the growing complexity of 5G networks, underscoring the need for proactive measures and joint efforts to protect critical infrastructure and ensure secure, resilient systems.
