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Security task force

1. Background

Year after year, security remains a top concern for CIOs and digital technology leaders, as reflected in Beltug’s annual Priorities Compass. In response to the increasing importance of security, Beltug established the Security task force in March 2021. This task force is dedicated to addressing various aspects of IT and OT security within the diverse and cross-industry business domains.

The Security task force focuses on the strategic and managerial perspective rather than the day-to-day operations.

By actively engaging in these discussions, the Security task force aims to help businesses stay ahead of security challenges, and make informed decisions to protect their digital assets effectively.

2. Scope and mission

The task force provides a platform for experts to exchange experiences and best practices. Beltug uses the findings and suggestions to inform its members, and to develop relevant new tools, papers and activities.

One of the key objectives of this specialist task force is to make suggestions and recommendations to Beltug concerning security-related lobbying efforts. This involves addressing important areas such as the NIS2 Directive and the EU Cybersecurity Act, particularly focusing on their implementation in Belgium. Additionally, Beltug collaborates closely with the Centre for Cybersecurity Belgium to further strengthen security measures.

The task force emphasises sharing conclusions, best practices and valuable insights with other Beltug members through regular activities. Although event organisation is not part of this initiative, the task force maintains a flexible, informal and collaborative structure, driven by consensus among its members. Beltug facilitates the task force and ensures that decisions align with the interests of the Beltug community and the effective functioning of the task force itself.

3. Members: who can apply?

Interested Beltug members can apply at info@beltug.be.

Typically, task force members are security experts: whether security is a specific part of their day-to-day responsibilities, or instead directly impacts their responsibilities. They must be Beltug members, from the user side, whose membership includes participation in the task force. (Note: with a Corporate Basic membership, your organisation can participate in one task force; with a Corporate Premium membership, your company can have delegates in as many task forces as you want). The task force members are knowledgeable people with a high willingness to share their expertise, and may come from all areas of companies and organisations.

The Security task force may not be used in any way for commercial purposes.

4. Participation

Participation in the Security task force by its members is a key component of its success. The task force convenes regularly, with the frequency of meetings determined collaboratively by its members. Active involvement is expected from all members, who are encouraged to share their experiences, propose relevant topics, make presentations, and attend gatherings consistently.

Meetings are conducted through both online and in-person formats, providing flexibility for participants. Building trust among members is paramount to facilitate open information sharing, and regular attendance plays a vital role in establishing and strengthening these personal connections.

From time to time, the task force may extend invitations to non-member experts or individuals with specialised experience in specific topics, in order to contribute to the discussions and enrich the collective expertise of the group. This collaborative approach ensures that diverse perspectives are brought to the table for comprehensive insights and solutions.

5. Confidentiality

Confidentiality is of the utmost importance within the Security task force, and the Chatham House Rule is strictly adhered to during meetings. This means that participants are free to utilise the information they receive, but they must not disclose the identity or affiliation of any speaker or participant. This rule fosters an atmosphere of trust and openness, encouraging meaningful discussions and knowledge exchange.
Furthermore, the task force employs the Traffic Light Protocol (TLP) when sharing sensitive information.

  • TLP RED indicates information that can only be shared within the task force and, in extreme cases, must be conveyed orally only. In such instances, the Chatham House Rule does not apply, emphasising the need for the utmost discretion.
  • TLP AMBER designates information that can only be shared within the organisations of the task force members, and is restricted to relevant individuals, on a need-to-know basis.
  • TLP GREEN allows information to be disseminated within the relevant community, without publication.
  • TLP WHITE permits free distribution, subject to copyright limitations.

To ensure the effectiveness of these confidentiality measures, the Security Task Force reserves the right to take appropriate actions, including the exclusion of any member found to be violating these rules. Maintaining confidentiality is critical to fostering a secure environment for open dialogue and the exchange of sensitive information, which ultimately benefits the entire Beltug community.

6. Potential conflicts of interest

In the Security task force, maintaining ethical conduct and transparency is paramount. If a potential conflict of interest arises during discussions, the concerned member will proactively inform the task force. Subsequently, the member will not be involved in determining Beltug’s position on that particular issue.

This proactive disclosure ensures open communication and helps identify any situations where personal or professional interests may influence decision-making. By excluding the involved member from the decision-making process for the specific issue, the task force preserves objectivity and impartiality in its recommendations.

Through this approach, the task force reinforces its commitment to the highest ethical standards and fosters an atmosphere of trust and collaboration. It ensures that Beltug’s positions are based on collective expertise and are in the best interests of the broader community. Transparency in addressing potential conflicts of interest enhances the credibility of the task force’s contributions and strengthens its impact on security-related initiatives.