Cybersecurity - the basis for successful digitalisation
Security first: Cyber security is central to the success of digitalisation - both for the economy as a whole and for each individual company. After all, companies can only utilise the full potential of digital technologies if they succeed in preventing unwanted access and manipulation from outside and inside.
This involves much more than the simple use of firewalls and virus scanners. Rather, it is about setting up and expanding a comprehensive security architecture in which procedures and technologies interlock and ensure the comprehensive protection of devices, programmes, networks and data.
Growing threat situation - companies in the focus of cyber criminals
The number of cyber attacks has been steadily increasing for years. Cybercrime is developing into a lucrative and increasingly professionalised "business model". As a result, it is no longer just large corporations that are being targeted by cyber criminals, but increasingly also small and medium-sized enterprises. At the same time, increasing digital networking and the growing complexity of digital processes throughout the economy are leading to more potential points of attack and vulnerabilities.
Even if the threat in the cyber area is more abstract at first glance than the theft of a company's cash register, for example, it is still very real and should not be underestimated. The consequences for companies that fail to protect themselves adequately are considerable and may threaten their very existence. This is why cyber security must be a matter for managers.

Prevention is the best policy - even when it comes to cyber security
One thing is clear: there is no such thing as 100 per cent security against cyber attacks! But companies can significantly minimise risks and minimise damage in the event of an emergency by taking targeted measures.
For this reason, it is important for all companies to implement a dynamic security architecture in the face of a growing and constantly evolving threat situation. This is because attackers in the IT sector adapt extremely quickly to the current state of technology and are learning to circumvent or break through new security systems in an increasingly targeted and sophisticated manner. This is why, in addition to implementing suitable technical and organisational measures, it is also important to establish a general security awareness within the company, for example through regular employee training. After all, effective protection can only be achieved if all components are interlinked.

Practising for emergencies - what to do in the event of a cyberattack?
In addition to prevention, response is also a necessary component of a cyber security architecture. The development and regular review of crisis response mechanisms in the event of a successful attack are also an important part of an effective security concept. Regularly running through and testing emergency mechanisms, clear responsibilities and communication chains in the event of an emergency and knowing the right contact points and contacts can help to recognise an attack at an early stage and minimise the damage.
