Raising Awareness about the European Telecommunications Standards Institute
Hear from our CEO, Maureen, on the importance of raising awareness about the European Telecommunications Standards Institute and making the world safer through standards as part of a recent interview she carried out with the NSAI.
Making the world safer through standards
An interview with Maureen King, Founder & CEO of iTrust 6A™
Throughout her 20 years in telecommunications and as an expert witness in criminal trials, Maureen King has gained extensive experience handling law enforcement requests for lawful access to and disclosure of data. This requires nuanced decision-making with technical, ethical, and legal considerations.
“I have seen first-hand how crucial it is for law enforcement to have timely and lawful access to data,” she says. “Implementing secure channels for the handover of this data is critical.”
In 2024, she co-founded iTrust 6A™, a legal tech startup which helps organisations manage these complex requests. She also serves on ETSI TC LI, a technical committee within the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) which works to develop standards supporting international requirements for lawful access to and disclosure of data.
With iTrust 6A™, Maureen adds, “It’s great we share the same purpose. We’re playing a small part in making the world safer – and that’s what standards bodies do as well.”
Building on expertise
Maureen’s telecoms experience gave her a solid foundation in standards and best practice.
“The telecommunications sector is highly regulated; we were always guided by standards – for example, when designing handover interfaces for the lawful access to and disclosure of data by law enforcement agencies.”
After Maureen moved into consulting, a colleague involved with ETSI approached her about joining TC LI, encouraging her to attend a couple of meetings first to see how they operated. ETSI is a recognised Global and European Standards Organisation, whose members develop standards for ICT-enabled systems, applications, and services.
Contributing to a diverse community
While not a technical expert, Maureen found she could contribute as a domain expert and practitioner.
“In developing a standard, the various interests being served must be represented – not solely by the technical people – because standards need to be clear, workable and effective for everyone.”
Maureen was particularly impressed by the consensus nature of the decision-making process before a standard is published.
“TC LI is a diverse, international group, rich in expertise and knowledge. You wouldn’t be there if you didn’t have a passion to make a difference. There is open and frank discussion, which is wonderful because it contributes to much better outcomes.”
Her experience gives her a clear understanding of the real-world impact of ETSI’s work.
“The standardisation of handover interfaces provides a secure, consistent, and transparent operational environment. This reduces risks of lost information and task errors, and lowers costs.”
“We want to ensure the industry always understands what data is being requested, by whom and why. We use common terminology and protocols so everyone can interact in ways which are clear, consistent, efficient, and secure.”
Enhancing credibility
Maureen’s involvement with ETSI also enhances the credibility and reputation of iTrust 6A™.
“When I talk to a client, I make a point of promoting the adoption of ETSI standards.”
“Being involved in a standards body shows your business is willing to invest and is committed to doing things right and giving back. I am at the table learning about emerging issues, new use cases, and the reasoning behind the development of a particular standard – providing valuable insights to share with clients.”
Plugging into expertise
Building an invaluable network has been a key benefit of her standards work.
“Being involved in ETSI has served us incredibly well, connecting us with hard-to-access worldwide specialists,” Maureen explains.
“I’ve become part of a global network of expertise that is willing to help and cares about doing things right.”
“Being part of ETSI offers a significant long-term return on investment. To me, this membership is like your health insurance – it’s a must.”
Acknowledgements
NSAI is participating in REGo_ETSI – a European project, with the purpose of raising awareness of ETSI’s activities and helping organisations learn more about the benefits of participating in the work of this organisation.
The REGo_ETSI project is funded by the European Union and the EFTA. Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EFTA. Neither the European Union nor the EFTA can be held responsible for them.