Why a modern SOC is important for NSM, GDPR, and the new Digital Security Act

What is a SOC?

A Security Operations Center (SOC) is an external or internal security service that monitors, detects, and responds to cyber threats 24/7. The service collects security-relevant information from the entire environment of the company – everything from endpoints and firewalls to applications and network traffic – and provides real-time overview and insight.

The goal is clear: To detect anomalies as early as possible, so that damage can be minimized – or preferably prevented. This way, the company can maintain continuity in its operations and delivery.

Read the article: Hva er en SOC? (Norwegian only)

NSM's basic principles: SOC as a direct measure

The National Security Authority (NSM) points out in the basic principles for ICT security that insufficient monitoring makes it easier for attackers to hide their tracks:

"Insufficient security monitoring and detection in information systems [...] allows attackers to hide presence, actions, and activities."

A SOC service addresses this precisely through:

Identification of critical systems and data
Collection and correlation of log data
Alerting on deviations from normal activity
Response and incident handling

These activities directly support NSM's requirements in chapter 3.2 on detection, logging, and monitoring.

GDPR: Continuous security and documentation

GDPR sets clear requirements for technical and organizational measures (Article 32). A modern SOC enables businesses to:

Prevent unauthorized access to personal data
Detect security breaches and notify in time (within 72 hours)
Document security measures to the Data Protection Authority

New norwegian law on digital security: Increased responsibility and supervision

In May 2023, the Government presented the proposal for Norway's first law on digital security. The law is based on the NIS directive and introduces requirements for selected businesses within critical sectors.

See: Law on Digital Security (Digital Security Act) - Lovdata

"The provider shall implement appropriate and proportional technical and organizational security measures that collectively ensure a level of security adapted to the risk. When assessing what constitutes a reasonable level of security, technological developments shall be taken into account." §7: https://lovdata.no/LTI/lov/2023-12-20-108/§7

SOC services provide businesses with an operational apparatus to:

Comply with the new legislation
Ensure availability, integrity, and confidentiality
Demonstrate compliance through documentation and alerting capability

Why a SOC from an experienced partner?

An optimal SOC service must integrate seamlessly with the company's existing infrastructure. It must be efficient, flexible, and based on best practices – but also anchored in local legislation and regulatory frameworks.

Whether you work in a public agency, an energy company, a bank, or a cloud service provider, the message is clear:

Monitoring is not optional – it is a prerequisite for digital continuity and preparedness.

Want to know more?

Learn how we at Sicra help businesses establish and operate SOC services – in line with NSM, GDPR, NIS2, DORA, and upcoming requirements in Norwegian legislation.

Learn more about our "SOC-services" here >