Future digital services will not rely on a single, isolated network. Instead, 6G ecosystems will consist of many interconnected networks operated by different stakeholders – such as mobile operators, cloud providers, edge platforms, private enterprise networks and vertical industries. Together, these form what is often referred to as a “Network of Networks”.
While this interconnection enables powerful new services and seamless connectivity, it also introduces significant security challenges. A weakness in one network can quickly affect others and isolated security mechanisms are no longer sufficient. PoC#11 will addresses this challenge by exploring how security information can be safely and effectively shared across multiple interconnected networks.
Why Security Sharing is Essential in 6G
In today’s networks, security monitoring and incident response are often handled within a single administrative domain. In future 6G environments, this approach becomes inadequate. Services may span several networks and attacks can propagate across network boundaries.
For example, a threat detected in one operator’s network may be relevant to neighbouring networks or partner infrastructures. If this information is not shared in a timely and trustworthy manner, other networks will remain vulnerable.
PoC#11 addresses this issue by exploring mechanisms that allow collaboration between networks, without compromising autonomy, privacy, or commercial boundaries.
What does “Security Sharing” mean?
- Indicators of malicious activity,
- Threat alerts,
- Risk assessments,
- High-level situational awareness.
The goal is to ensure that networks can learn from each other’s observations, improving collective resilience while maintaining local control.
Challenges of Sharing Security Information
Sharing security data across networks is not trivial. Different networks may use different technologies, policies and security tools. There are also concerns related to:
- Data confidentiality,
- Trust between stakeholders,
- Liability and responsibility,
- Compliance with regulations.
PoC#11 will explore how these challenges can be addressed by defining clear interfaces, policies and trust models that regulate what information is shared, with whom and under what conditions.
What PoC#11 will Demonstrate
PoC#11 will demonstrate how security-related information can be exchanged between networks in a structured and controlled way. Instead of just raw data, networks can share processed and meaningful security signals that can be acted upon without revealing sensitive internal details.
By correlating shared information with local observations, each network will be able to gain a more complete picture of ongoing threats. This will enable earlier detection of coordinated or large-scale attacks that might otherwise go unnoticed when networks operate in isolation.
Supporting Coordinated Responses
Another key aspect of PoC#11 is showing how shared security insights can support coordinated responses. When multiple networks are affected by similar threats, aligned mitigation actions can reduce overall impact and prevent attackers from simply moving from one network to another.
Importantly, PoC#11 does not assume centralised control. Each network remains responsible for its own decisions, while benefiting from shared awareness and collective intelligence.
Why this Matters for Future Services
Many future services enabled by 6G – such as cross-border connectivity, smart transportation systems, industrial automation and emergency communications, depend on multiple networks working together seamlessly. Security weaknesses in any part of this chain can undermine service reliability and user trust.
PoC#11 shows how security sharing can become a foundational capability for such services, enabling cooperation without sacrificing independence.
A key Building block for Trustworthy 6G Ecosystems
Within the MARE project, PoC#11 will highlight the importance of moving beyond siloed security approaches. By enabling networks to share relevant security information responsibly, it supports the creation of resilient, trustworthy and cooperative 6G ecosystems.
As networks become more interconnected, security can no longer be addressed alone. PoC#11 demonstrates how collaboration, supported by clear governance and intelligent mechanisms, will be essential for protecting the digital infrastructure of the future.
