Minister Rejects List of Open-Source Cybersecurity Software

By Netvora Tech News

In a recent debate on online security and cybersecurity in the Dutch parliament, Minister of Justice and Security Weel expressed concerns about a list of open-source software compiled by the government to help small businesses protect their data and systems. The list was intended to provide a cost-effective solution for cybersecurity, but the minister believes it may not be the most effective approach.

The debate was sparked by a proposed motion from GroenLinks-PvdA-Kamerlid Kathmann, which aimed to pressure the government into creating a list of reliable and free open-source cybersecurity software that Dutch citizens could use to improve their online security. However, Kathmann ultimately decided not to pursue the motion after realizing it would likely be rejected.

Cost Concerns

Kathmann argued that many small businesses face significant costs when it comes to cybersecurity, making it difficult for them to protect themselves against online threats. "For many small entrepreneurs, this is just a huge cost," Kathmann said. "I would very much like to see us work on a kind of open-source list where businesses can find out how they can become cyber-secure at a low price."

Minister's Concerns

Minister Weel acknowledged the concerns about the cost of cybersecurity, but expressed reservations about the government compiling a list of open-source software. He cited potential implications for responsibility and errors that could arise from using open-source software. "Then it's the government that has recommended it," Weel said.

Instead, Weel suggested that the government could provide information through official channels to help IT professionals find the right open-source software or identify potential risks. "I think that's a compromise I can make in that context," he said.

Background

Last year, D66 and GroenLinks-PvdA introduced a motion calling on the government to create a list of reliable and free open-source cybersecurity software that Dutch citizens could use to improve their online security. The motion ultimately expired due to the passage of time and did not come to a vote.

The debate highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing cybersecurity costs with the need for effective online protection.
The government's reluctance to compile a list of open-source software may be due to concerns about liability and errors in the software.
Alternative solutions, such as providing information through official channels, may be seen as a compromise between the government's concerns and the need for affordable cybersecurity solutions.