NIS2 in the Travel sector: what it really means for suppliers and agencies
The NIS2 Directive (Network and Information Security 2) has landed in Europe, and although many travel agencies and tourism providers see it as "something for banks and power companies," the reality is quite different. The Travel sector, due to its global interconnection and critical dependence on data, is in the spotlight. This article breaks down what NIS2 is, why it should concern (and occupy) tourism sector executives, and what practical steps must be taken to avoid being left out of the game.
From Recommendation to Obligation: The Paradigm Shift
The main difference between the original NIS and NIS2 is scope and severity. The regulation expands the sectors considered "essential" and "important," including digital service providers and online platforms, categories that fit many OTAs (Online Travel Agencies), bedbanks, and tourism tech operators. It is no longer about "doing your best"; now there is direct legal liability for management in case of non-compliance.
Why is the Travel Sector a Critical Target?
Cybercriminals know that tourism is the perfect storm: it manages highly sensitive data (passports, credit cards, people's movements), operates 24/7 with legacy systems that are often insecure, and has an extremely fragmented supply chain. An attack on a small provider connected via API can be the gateway to a large tourism group. NIS2 seeks precisely to seal these cracks in the supply chain.
The 3 Pillars of NIS2 Adaptation
There's no need to panic, but action is required. Adaptation is based on three axes:
- Governance and Responsibility: Management must be trained in cybersecurity and approve risk management measures. "I don't know about IT" is no longer a valid excuse in court or for a fine.
- Risk Management and Technical Measures: Multi-factor authentication (MFA) must be implemented everywhere, data encryption, vulnerability management, and, very importantly, business continuity plans. If the booking system goes down, how do you continue operating?
- Incident Notification: The rule establishes very strict deadlines (often 24 hours) to notify competent authorities of serious incidents. This requires having detection and response protocols already prepared and rehearsed.
The Domino Effect: If you don't comply, you don't sell
Even if your agency is small and you think NIS2 doesn't apply directly due to size, it will affect you indirectly. Your large corporate clients (who are obligated) will require you to demonstrate an equivalent level of security to continue working with you. Cybersecurity is becoming an unavoidable contractual clause in corporate travel RFPs (Requests for Proposal).
Conclusion: Security as a Brand Asset
Viewing NIS2 only as a bureaucratic burden is a strategic error. In a world where trust is the most valuable currency, being able to demonstrate that your company is a safe harbor for travelers' data is a competitive advantage. Adaptation requires investment and cultural change, but the cost of not doing so—in fines, reputation, and lost business—is infinitely higher.