In a digital world where cyberattacks have become a daily threat, cyber resilience is a key factor for business success. But true security does not come from technology alone – it needs people. Markus Adolph provides insights into the security culture at EBF and encourages other companies to make cybersecurity a top priority – with people at the center.
Why is cyber resilience so important today?
Unfortunately, cyber attacks are part of everyday life in our digital world – and the risk is constantly increasing. Technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing will profoundly change our security landscape. That’s why we have to work hard to prepare for the transition of IT security to an era in which AI is ubiquitous and quantum computers could render conventional encryption useless. Security must be a top priority and is crucial to a company’s success. Those who don’t address this issue comprehensively now risk the future of their company.
Markus Adolph
EBF founder and managing partner
It's not an easy task. How can companies ensure their security?
Security must be a matter for the boss – but it can’t just be left to the boardroom. For me personally, this topic has absolute priority and is based on three pillars: a clear strategy, innovative technologies and the continuous awareness of all employees. Attentive users, supported by effective technologies and well-thought-out structures, form the foundation of a strong security culture. This is the only way to ensure a high level of protection in the long term and the only way to detect threats in good time and defend against them decisively. Security is teamwork!
What does the security culture at EBF look like – how are employees made aware of security issues?
Security needs every single person – it is a shared responsibility! It is incredibly important to me that our employees see themselves not as a potential weak point, but as part of the solution. To do that, we have to take away their fear and enable them. We rely on regular training sessions – designed to be interactive – and continuously conduct phishing simulations that provide many valuable tips and create lightbulb moments. Those who feel insecure can get support at any time. This is the only way to develop a true sense of security and trust in one’s own ability to recognize attacks. And of course, I also complete every training session – security needs all of us.
How can technology support and protect employees? What security solutions does the EBF use?
Security technologies play an essential role in supporting and relieving employees. They form a strong protective shield. Among other things, we rely on powerful firewalls, virus scanners, UEM systems, VPN and mobile threat defense solutions that fend off many threats in the background. Effective internal and external monitoring ensures that security-related events are immediately detected and updates are carried out promptly. We also provide our employees with tools for secure password management and encrypted file transfer to external parties – so that uncertainties and detours do not arise. Our internal IT team does a great job here, balancing security and usability.
What strategic considerations does all this build on?
Our security is based on a holistic, risk-based security strategy. We have created clear responsibilities, structures, processes and guidelines – accessible and comprehensible to everyone and implemented through appropriate measures. This also includes regularly checking where we stand. A well-thought-out emergency plan ensures that everyone knows what to do in an emergency. Transparency is a central building block in all of this: knowing what measures are being taken and why helps to develop a genuine awareness of security.
What would you advise companies that want to improve their cyber resilience?
The key to greater cyber resilience lies in a holistic approach. Identify, evaluate and prioritize risks and then develop measures based on them. Technical solutions are essential – but they alone are not enough. The crucial thing is to take people with you! Create awareness that everyone can – and must – make an important contribution. Combine this with the right technologies and clear processes. And don’t give up! Security is not a project with an end date. Security must be part of a company’s mindset and constantly evolving. When everyone pulls together, security is not just shared responsibility, but shared strength.
WHITEPAPER
The EBF Safety Compass - With all our knowledge
A comprehensive guide to IT security, covering cyber resilience strategies, current threats, the impact of AI and measures to strengthen the security culture in companies.
