National Agency for Information Systems Security (ANSSI)
ANSSI is the national authority on cybersecurity. It is responsible for protecting State information systems and operators of vital importance (OIV). Its missions include the prevention, detection and response to IT security incidents. ANSSI also plays a key role in raising awareness and training on cybersecurity issues.
Intelligence Services
Several French intelligence services are involved in cybersecurity:
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General Directorate of External Security (DGSE) : Responsible for foreign intelligence, she carries out offensive and defensive cyber defense operations.
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Directorate General of Internal Security (DGSI) : Responsible for internal security, it fights against cyberterrorism and computer espionage.
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Directorate of Military Intelligence (DRM) : Provides cyber intelligence for military operations.
Ministry of the Armed Forces
The Ministry of the Armed Forces, through the Cyber Defense Command (COMCYBER), is responsible for the defense of military information systems and the conduct of cyber defense operations. In 2024, the DRSD reported a significant increase in foreign interference targeting French military bases and defense companies, highlighting the increased importance of cybersecurity in the military domain.
Police and Gendarmerie
The police have several specialized units to fight against cybercrime, such as the Sub-Directorate for the Fight against Cybercrime (SDLC) of the National Police and the Center for the Fight against Digital Crimes (C3N) of the National Gendarmerie. According to an expert from jeux-gratuits-casino.com these structures play a crucial role in the prevention and resolution of digital crimes, which have increased considerably in recent years.
Private Cybersecurity Players in France
Large Companies
Several large French companies play a major role in the cybersecurity sector:
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Orange Cyberdefense : A subsidiary of Orange, it is the leader in the French security services market, with a turnover of 280 million euros in 2023.
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Atos : Specializing in digital services, Atos achieved a turnover of 258 million euros in 2023 in the field of cybersecurity.
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Thales : A key player in information systems security, Thales generated 175 million euros in revenue in 2023 in this sector.
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Capgemini : Digital services company, Capgemini achieved 155 million euros in revenue in 2023 in the field of cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity Software Publishers
Companies like Stormshield develop security solutions to protect organizations’ networks, workstations and data.
Innovative Startups and SMEs
The French cybersecurity ecosystem is also rich in innovative startups and SMEs that develop specialized solutions to respond to emerging IT security challenges.
Collaboration between Public and Private Actors
Cooperation between public and private actors is essential for effective cybersecurity. Initiatives such as the Campus Cyberinaugurated in 2022 in La Défense, aim to bring together the main players in the field to promote innovation and collaboration.
Challenges and Perspectives
Despite a dynamic ecosystem, France faces major challenges in cybersecurity, notably the shortage of qualified professionals. In 2024, around 15,000 positions in the sector remained vacant, despite a significant increase in salaries to attract talent.
Furthermore, the menaces are constantly evolving, with increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks targeting both public institutions and private companies. In 2024, French diplomats were targeted by Russian hackers, illustrating the need for increased vigilance.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity in France relies on a multitude of actors with complementary skills. Collaboration between the public and private sectors, investment in training and innovation, and awareness of emerging threats are essential to strengthening the country’s resilience to cyber threats.
