Telecoms Security Framework (TSF) – Background And Requirements

The UK Government is introducing a new telecoms security framework (the "TSF") through the Telecommunications (Security) Bill (the "Bill").

This is a particularly important development, given that fines could be significant – up to 10% of annual turnover and/or £100,000 per day of contravention in certain circumstances as further described in the Financial Penalties section below.

The Bill amends the Communications Act 2003 by:

• strengthening the security duties on public telecoms providers;
• enhancing the Government's powers to set out specific security requirements and issue codes of practice; and
• giving Ofcom greater tools and responsibilities for monitoring and ensuring industry compliance.