Only those who know their own weaknesses can remedy them. Sebastian Schreiber, Managing Director of SySS GmbH, discusses how to achieve this in an interview and a keynote speech at the Internet Security Days (ISD) 2023.
Mr Schreiber, how do you assess the current IT threat situation for German SMEs?
The primary threat to SMEs currently arises from crypto-ransomware. Not a day passes without me receiving calls from customers whose systems have been encrypted, leaving them facing a ransom demand. Considering the escalating global situation, there is, of course, a significant threat as political conflicts are now being waged in the realm of cyberspace as well.
Why are penetration tests particularly important now?
Anyone wishing to protect themselves against cyberattacks must have a clear understanding of their own vulnerabilities. However, most people do not know their own weaknesses. This is where the penetration test holds particular significance: it reveals you your own shortcomings. The fascinating aspect is that the weaknesses can often be rectified quite easily, as long as you are aware of them.
What should companies do now, also against the background of the new critical infrastructures (abbreviated in German as “KRITIS”) regulation?
Companies are generally called upon to prioritise the security of their own systems. However, KRITIS companies in particular must also take care of their suppliers and service providers. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the stability and security of their own systems, for which the companies themselves bear responsibility. Simultaneously, companies must ensure that the purchased systems, which they are rely on, are appropriately secured.
Mr Schreiber, thank you very much for the interview!
Sebastian Schreiber, born in 1972, studied computer science, physics, mathematics and business administration at the University of Tübingen. In 1998, while still a student, he founded the IT security company SySS GmbH in Tübingen, which now has over 160 employees at four locations conducting IT security audits for a large number of companies. In addition, Sebastian Schreiber is a recognised IT security expert in print media, radio and television.
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