Incident Response – Peace of Mind and Control in Data Breaches

Every second counts in a data breach

Imagine this: your network seems intact, but sensitive data has been accessed. Without you noticing, the Personal Data Authority (AP) asks for an explanation within 72 hours. Who was logged in? What was changed? Do you have to report this under the AVG? For many Dutch companies, this sounds like a nightmare – and yet it happens every day.

For SMBs, the impact is huge: reputational damage, legal fines and loss of customer confidence. Without an incident response plan, one small incident turns into a major crisis.

At ALTA-ICT, we help companies respond professionally and certified – without panic. With our ISO27001 and NEN7510 approach, you know exactly what to do when things go wrong.

IT security – How prepared are you for Q4?

What is incident response and why essential in the Netherlands?

Incident response is the structured process to address security incidents such as hacks, phishing or data breaches quickly and effectively.

Why so important in the Netherlands?

AVG/GDPR: Organizations are required to report a data breach within 72 hours.
NIS2 Directive (2025): Stricter European cybersecurity requirements, with direct impact on Dutch companies.
Reputation and trust: Dutch customers expect their data to be safe – one mistake can cause long-term damage.

In short: Incident response is not only technical, but also strategic for compliance and continuity.

Implementing Incident Response – A Practical Guide

Step 1: Assessment and planning

Risk analysis of IT systems
Dutch compliance check (AVG, NIS2)
Defining roles and responsibilities

Step 2: Preparation

Establish incident response team
Implement detection and monitoring tools
Awareness training for employees

Step 3: Action on incident

Secure log files and traces immediately
Conduct impact analysis
Communication plan: inform customers, AP and internal stakeholders

Step 4: Recovery and optimization

Phasing systems back online
Implement root cause analysis and measures
Annual reviews and audits (ISO27001/NEN7510)

Common mistakes in Dutch companies

No plan: Think only after an incident.
Insufficient logging: No visibility into who did what.
No reporting protocol: Late or incorrect reporting to the AP.
Lack of training: Employees click on phishing links without knowing what to do.
Ad-hoc approach: Panic reactions that cause more damage than the incident itself.

ALTA-ICT prevents this with a proven, structured approach that brings peace of mind and control.

ROI of incident response for SMEs.

Average 60% lower downtime thanks to prepared incident response.
30% less chance of AVG fines through accurate reporting.
Increased customer confidence: Transparency and prompt communication preserve reputation.

Case: A Dutch healthcare facility was able to recover safely within 2 hours of an attack because of our approach, without losing patient data.

ALTA-ICT approach: why do customers choose us?

ISO27001 & NEN7510 certified – proven quality and compliance
Dutch specialization: AVG, AP notifications, NIS2 preparation
24/7 monitoring and rapid response – always someone available
Peace and control: no panic, but a clear roadmap

FAQ

Do I always have to report a data breach to the Personal Data Authority?
Yes, unless there is unlikely to be any risk to data subjects.

What is the 72-hour rule?
You have up to 72 hours to report a data breach to the AP.

What does an incident response plan cost?
This varies by company size. ALTA-ICT offers transparent packages for SMEs.

What is NIS2 and does it apply to my business?
Yes, from 2025 many more sectors and SMEs will be covered by NIS2.

How quickly can ALTA-ICT intervene in an incident?
Within hours, depending on the service agreement chosen.

Conclusion: waiting is not an option

Incidents are not a question of if, but of when. With a certified incident response plan, you can prevent panic, minimize damage and comply with Dutch legislation.

👉 Book a free consultation with our experts today at alta-ict.co.uk/free-consultation.