Recognitions
The MDIA regulates and issues a range of recognitions aimed at actively fostering, promoting, and facilitating the advancement of innovative technology. Recognitions include licences, registrations, permissions, authorizations, approvals, acknowledgements, certifications, attestations, or marks of credit, granted or issued by the Authority in accordance with the powers of the Authority.
The Authority also regulates and issues recognition to persons engaged in activities falling within the competence of the Authority, the Act or any other law which the Authority has the power to administer or enforce or any European Union and, or international legislation.
This section provides a brief overview of current recognitions and other notifications and registration in the remit of the MDIA.
Technical Experts
A Technical Expert is an individual with the necessary knowledge and expertise in a specific technological domain, as per criteria defined by MDIA. Periodically, schemes will be released comprising roles that can be carried out by Technical Experts.
Systems Auditors
In line with Article 9 of the ITAS Act, Applicants interested in performing Systems Audits shall apply to Malta Digital Innovation Authority for their suitability to be registered. Subject to requirements established in this document, an Auditee may engage any registered Systems Auditor of their choice to audit Innovative Technology Arrangements or parts thereof. All Systems Audits carried out by registered Systems Auditors within the MDIA Guidelines documents shall be subject to requirements as set -out by the Authority.
Technical Administrators
Individuals or legal organisations applying for registration or that hold a Certificate of Registration with the Authority may have interest in acting as a Technical Administrator. The Applicant interested in taking on the role of Technical Administrator shall apply to the Authority for their suitability to be registered. The Authority may recognise an Applicant to act as a registered Technical Administrator only if the Applicant satisfies the requisite criteria included in applicable MDIA Guidelines.
Technology Assessment Recognition Framework (TARF)
Technology Assessment Recognition Framework (TARF) has been designed to establish and provide policy and compliance utilities presented in graded levels and tailored technological assurance to a wide spectrum of technologies operating with different risk appetites within the local market. Its primary objective is to ensure maximum assurance value to solution stakeholders.
Sandbox
A technological sandbox is a pioneering concept that offers a secure space for individuals or companies developing solutions involving cutting-edge technologies such as Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence, or solutions deployed in critical environments. This environment ensures proper nurturing of these solutions in accordance with recognised standards. Early-phase alignment proves cost-effective, pre-emptively avoiding the need for post-development rectifications.
Certified Dispute Settlement Bodies
Dispute Settlement Bodies are independent and impartial dispute resolution services to resolve disputes arising under the Data Act, such as disagreements over access to and sharing of data generated by connected products, the conditions under which data is made available, or the rights related to switching between data processing services. The MDIA certifies Dispute Settlement Bodies in accordance with Article 10 of the Data Act, and maintains and publishes the list of Dispute Settlement Bodies certified in Malta.
Cybersecurity Certification
MDIA, in collaboration with ENISA, is developing EU cybersecurity certification schemes under the Cybersecurity Act. These voluntary certifications aim to enhance the EU Digital Single Market by enabling vendors and service providers to demonstrate and promote the cybersecurity of their products. The goal is to harmonise cybersecurity standards across the EU, increasing market reach and trust.
Data Intermediation and Altruism
Data Intermediation Services are neutral third parties that facilitate data exchange between data holders and data users. Meanwhile, Data Altruism Organisations promote voluntary data sharing, aiding research, policymaking and societal benefits. MDIA offers organisations the possibility to register to be recognised as a Data Altruism Organisation. Moreover, MDIA is involved in the European Data Innovation Board, which the EU Commission established.