Telecommunications

Threat Landscape

Telecommunications infrastructure underpins connectivity for all economic sectors and essential services. State-sponsored actors target telecom networks for strategic access to communications and data flows. Supply chain attacks on telecom equipment manufacturers create persistent risk for all downstream operators.

5G infrastructure expansion introduces new security challenges with software-defined networking, virtualisation, and the expanded attack surface of massive IoT connectivity. Ransomware operators have targeted telecom operators recognising that service disruption impacts all downstream customers and sectors.

Regulatory & Framework Landscape

Telecommunications operators are designated under the NIS Regulations and assessed against the NCSC CAF. Ofcom sets additional expectations for network security and resilience. 5G supply chain security requirements impose vendor assessment and risk management obligations. The NIS2 Directive will expand scope and strengthen enforcement.

CCM Domain Alignment

Telecommunications organisations operate on the mandatory baseline (D01–D13), with particular emphasis on D06 (Network Security), D12 (Supply Chain Security), and D09 (Security Operations) given the sector's network-centric operating model and supply chain exposure.

Operating Context

How C-PAP Supports Telecommunications

C-PAP provides a unified assurance platform addressing NIS obligations, Ofcom expectations, and 5G supply chain security requirements through a single control baseline. The platform consolidates compliance across fixed, mobile, and emerging 5G network architectures.

For telecom operators managing complex, multi-vendor network infrastructure, C-PAP enables structured supply chain assurance and vendor assessment alongside enterprise security governance — essential as 5G supply chain security requirements intensify.