KLORENTA PASHAJ , ERALDA GJIKA , LULE BASHA
KEYWORDS : critical information infrastructure, essential services, cybersecurity, international collaboration .
ABSTRACT :
Since the inception of the internet, protecting critical information infrastructure has been essential, particularly as attacks on such systems increasingly impact all vital sectors. This protection is a collective responsibility shared between the public and private sectors. In Albania, the National Authority for Cyber Security (NACS) serves as the national Cyber Incident Response Team (CSIRT), coordinating proactive and reactive measures to shield these infrastructures. Additionally, cooperation with international organizations, alongside awareness-raising and training programs, significantly enhances the defense against threats to these critical systems. This article provides a comprehensive review of Critical Information Infrastructure Protection (CIIP) in Albania, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Cyber Incident Response Team (CSIRTs) and the necessity for robust protective measures aligned with both national and European cybersecurity regulations. It concludes with key recommendations for refining protective strategies and announces future studies aimed at analyzing historical trends and data to enhance the understanding and performance of CSIRTs among various stakeholders.