Comprehensive Guide to National Cybersecurity Incident Reporting Processes and Timelines

This article provides a comprehensive explanation of the national cybersecurity incident reporting processes and timelines, covering subject classification, time requirements, reporting channels, and emergency response. It assists enterprises and agencies in efficient and compliant reporting to strengthen security defenses.

**Introduction**

With increasingly complex cybersecurity threats, the nation has imposed strict requirements on the reporting processes and timelines for cybersecurity incidents. Enterprises and government agencies, as key infrastructure operators, must prioritize timely incident reporting. This article provides a thorough explanation of the national cybersecurity incident reporting process, timeline requirements, reporting channels, and emergency response procedures, helping you build a robust security defense.

In the digital transformation era, efficient incident reporting is not only a compliance mandate but also a foundation for resisting attacks and maintaining stable operations. Combining case studies and expert insights, this guide offers practical advice for network operators and security professionals.

**1. Reporting Subject Classification and Responsibilities**

The reporting subjects are divided into three categories: Key Information Infrastructure Operators (KIIO), Central and State Agencies, and Other Network Operators. Each has specific reporting duties based on incident severity.

– **KIIO** cover critical sectors such as telecommunications, finance, power, transportation, medical. They must report “significant” or above incidents within 1 hour to protective or public security agencies. For “major” or “particularly major” events, an upgraded report must be sent within 30 minutes after departmental notification to the National Cyberspace Administration and Ministry of Public Security.
– **Central and State Agencies** report “significant” or above incidents within 2 hours to their internal cybersecurity units; “major” and “particularly major” incidents require reporting to the national cybersecurity authority within 1 hour after internal reporting.
– **Other Network Operators** including private and smaller enterprises must report “significant” events within 4 hours to provincial cybersecurity authorities; provincial authorities then escalate major events within 1 hour to the national office.

**2. Reporting Timelines and Operational Details for KIIO**

Clear classification and time limits are essential for effective response:

| Reporting Subject | Incident Level | Reporting Recipient | Reporting Deadline |
|—————————|———————|————————–|—————————|
| KIIO | Significant+ | Protective/Public Security| ≤1 hour |
| | Major/Particularly Major | National Cyberspace + Public Security | ≤0.5 hours (after department report) |
| Central and State Agencies| Significant+ | Department Cybersecurity | ≤2 hours |
| | Major/Particularly Major | National Cybersecurity | ≤1 hour (after department report) |
| Other Network Operators | Significant+ | Provincial Cybersecurity | ≤4 hours |
| | Major/Particularly Major | National Cyberspace | ≤1 hour (after provincial report) |

**3. Multiple Reporting Channels via “12387” Platform**

– **Hotline:** Dial 12387 for urgent telephone reporting.
– **Website:** https://12387.cert.org.cn for friendly interface and document upload.
– **WeChat Mini Program:** Quick mobile reporting with multimedia upload.
– **WeChat Official Account:** “国家互联网应急中心 CNCERT” menu for interactive reporting.
– **Email:** 12387@cert.org.cn for detailed written reports.
– **Fax:** 010-82992387 as a traditional channel.

**4. Core Emergency Response Procedure**

Includes discovery, classification, reporting, handling, and post-incident review forming a full cycle to enhance resilience.

**5. Key Reminders and Best Practices**

– Adhere strictly to reporting time windows.
– Escalate major incidents to higher authorities.
– Conduct regular drills.
– Refine internal policies.
– Use analytical tools for grading incidents.
– Consult CERT official sites for updates.

**FAQ Highlights:** Definitions of incident levels, rationale for stricter timelines for KIIO, reporting hierarchy, pre-reporting handling, supporting tools, and what to do if reporting fails.

Visit the national CERT website (https://www.cert.org.cn) for more information. For professional training and compliance consultation, visit De-line Information Technology (https://www.de-line.net).

Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. Start by mastering the national cybersecurity incident reporting process to protect our digital future!
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