Belgium introduces mandatory ‘cyber licence’ for internet users
From April 2026, internet users in Belgium will need to pass a mandatory cybersecurity test to access online services, as part of the government’s strategy to make the country one of the least vulnerable to cyber threats in Europe.
The "cyber licence" will be linked to citizens’ national register numbers and required for activities such as email, social media and online banking. The test will assess knowledge of key security practices, including phishing detection, two-factor authentication and safe browsing habits.
Three licence types will be introduced: one for general users (Type A), one for business owners (Type B) and one for professionals in public and IT sectors (Type C). Users can retake the test up to three times per year. Each attempt will cost 123.45 euros.
From 2027, those without a valid licence risk temporary internet restrictions of up to 72 hours or supervision by a "cyber guardian".
A free practice test is available from Tuesday on Safeonweb’s website. It allows citizens to assess their skills ahead of the official rollout.
Before you panic and start revising for your cyber exam - relax! The cyber licence doesn’t exist (yet). Belgium won’t be assigning cyber guardians to supervise your internet use anytime soon, but brushing up on your online security skills is never a bad idea. Every year, thousands of Belgians fall victim to phishing and other scams. In 2024 alone, phishing victims reported losses of 5.6 million euros - more than double the amount from the previous year.
This announcement is an April Fool’s joke by Safeonweb.be, aimed at raising awareness of cyber security.
© PHOTO NICOLAS ASFOURI / AFP
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