Cybersecurity for the digital future

The increasing digitalization and networking undoubtedly bring many advantages – but they also come with increased risks: Cyberattacks have become a serious threat. According to surveys by the German digital association Bitkom, 72% of companies were affected by theft, industrial espionage, or sabotage last year – resulting in a total damage of 200 billion euros. Of this, 35.3 billion euros were due to damage to the company’s image among customers or suppliers, as well as negative media coverage. Another 35 billion euros were due to damages caused by the failure, theft, or damage to information and production systems or business processes. A further 21.5 billion euros were attributed to revenue losses due to the loss of competitive advantages.

Despite these alarming figures, many companies – particularly smaller ones – do not take sufficient care of their digital security. It is a misconception to hope that cybercriminals are not interested in “small fish” – the opposite is true: Small and medium-sized enterprises with weak protection are easy targets for cybercriminals.

Cybersecurity starts with choosing a secure password and extends to more complex technological solutions, such as firewalls or zero-trust principles. In principle, two areas of cybersecurity can be distinguished: Information Technology (IT) Security and Operational Technology (OT) Security. While the former primarily deals with the security of data in IT systems and networks, OT security refers to the security of operational technology – particularly hardware and software used to monitor and control operational systems, processes, and networks.

Furthermore, cybersecurity is not a static topic. New threats are constantly emerging, requiring protective measures to be found. If cybersecurity is imagined as a locked door, there are continuous attempts and new techniques to pick the lock, saw through the door, or steal the key. Innovative disruptive technologies, such as artificial intelligence, enable cybercriminals to develop new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. This also exponentially increases the speed of hacking cycles. For this reason, protective solutions must continuously adapt to changing threats, and ongoing monitoring is essential.

Last but not least, employees also play a major role in protecting a company from cybercrime. Anyone who operates a computer, smartphone, or other device within the company network, or who is responsible for the safe operation of IT and OT devices or networks, presents a potential entry point.

To close such security gaps, regular employee training is useful in addition to technical measures. Furthermore, companies should develop an emergency plan for such extortion attempts to be able to react quickly and correctly in the event of an emergency.

For companies, the question often arises whether faster digitalization not only brings economic benefits but also rapidly increases risks.

Successful digitalization is impossible without robust cybersecurity. Investing in it not only justifies the cost but also empowers companies to seize the opportunities of digital transformation. Having trustworthy partners by your side is essential - this is where the Siemens Xcelerator platform comes into play.

As one of five design principles, cybersecurity is a fundamental component of the Siemens Xcelerator platform. The platform aims to enable companies to accelerate their digital transformation without compromising cybersecurity. This starts with the security standards of the platform itself and the products offered on it. Siemens Xcelerator adheres to the guidelines of international industry standards, such as ISO/IEC 27001, IEC 62443, and the NIS-2 directive. Additionally, vendors on the platform are required to ensure the security of their products and services with appropriate technical and organizational measures. Cybersecurity also plays a crucial role in the selection of curated products: The platform offers numerous tailored and specific solutions on the topic.

The products on the Siemens Xcelerator business platform are centered on customers and their individual needs – from large to medium and small businesses. The carefully curated portfolio includes Siemens solutions complemented by offerings and services from specialized providers. Additionally, these vendors in the Siemens Xcelerator ecosystem have the opportunity to offer their products and develop new solutions using Siemens products or in collaboration with other providers. For companies on the path of digital transformation, this variety simply means that Siemens Xcelerator offers what they need for their current challenges.

Some of the cybersecurity solutions offered include:

• Vulnerability management:

  Tools for proactively identifying and managing vulnerabilities in your systems.

• Cyber defense:

  Advanced products and services providing comprehensive protection against cyberattacks.

• Network security:

  Specialized solutions for securing networks, including critical infrastructures.

• Continuous support:

  24-hour monitoring and support to continuously monitor and support operational technologies.

• Regulatory compliance:

  Expert advice on complying with cybersecurity regulations such as NIS 2 or the EU CRA.

• Risk analysis and penetration testing:

  Comprehensive cybersecurity analyses, including penetration testing to identify and assess potential risks.

• Post-Incident resilience:

  Consulting and services for backup and disaster recovery to respond quickly after a security incident.

With these comprehensive offerings, Siemens Xcelerator aims to turn challenges for companies of all sizes into new opportunities. For example, the Swiss communications specialist “Sunrise” provides fast and reliable mobile private networks through the Siemens Xcelerator ecosystem, which can be used for the secure and efficient management of IT and OT systems. The company “acre,” which specializes in physical and digital security, offers integrated security solutions ranging from data security to the protection of premises and employees. The other products and services in the Siemens Xcelerator platform’s cybersecurity portfolio are also designed to help companies benefit from digitalization while significantly reducing security risks.