Turkey has introduced a sweeping new Cyber Security Law (Law No. 7545), aimed at strengthening the country’s resilience against cyber threats. The law establishes a clear framework for protecting critical infrastructure, securing public and private sector digital assets, and ensuring national security in cyberspace.
Who is Affected?
The law applies broadly across multiple sectors, covering public institutions, professional organizations with public status, and private entities operating in cyberspace. However, specific intelligence and military operations conducted under existing Turkish laws are exempt from these regulations.
Key Principles and Responsibilities
Turkey’s new cyber security framework is built on foundational principles, including:
- Cyber security as a national security priority
- Protection of critical infrastructure and sensitive data
- Continuous improvement and adaptation of security policies
- Use of domestic solutions for cyber security efforts
- Accountability in cyber security operations across sectors
Public institutions, private entities, and individuals must comply with these principles by implementing appropriate security measures and reporting cyber threats.
Cyber Security Board and the Role of the Presidency
The law establishes a Cyber Security Board, which includes high-ranking government officials such as the Ministers of Justice, Defense, and Foreign Affairs. This board is responsible for setting national cyber security policies, resolving disputes, and overseeing critical infrastructure security.
The Cyber Security Presidency will serve as the central authority for enforcing the law, carrying out audits, establishing cyber response teams, and developing security standards. It will also oversee cyber threat intelligence and coordination with international entities.
Security Measures and Compliance Requirements
Organizations subject to the law must conduct risk assessments and implement protective measures for information systems, report cyber incidents promptly to the Cyber Security Presidency, establish cyber security response teams (SOMEs) for managing threats, and utilize certified security products and services approved by the Presidency. Failure to comply may result in administrative fines ranging from ₺1 million to ₺100 million, depending on the severity of the violation.
Strict Penalties for Cyber Crimes
The law introduces harsh penalties for cyber crimes, including:
- Unauthorized access or refusal to provide requested information: 1–3 years in prison.
- Operating without authorization: 2–4 years in prison.
- Leaking critical public service data: 3–5 years in prison.
- Cyber attacks targeting national security: 8–12 years in prison, with harsher penalties for data dissemination.
Companies operating in Turkey should review their cyber security strategies to ensure compliance. The Cyber Security Presidency will issue further regulations detailing implementation requirements within the next year.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Turkey
Certification Body: Information and Communication Technologies Authority
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: Indefinite
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Local Representative
In-Country Testing Requirement: Testing Not Required
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