Nowadays, cyber attacks are increasing in complexity and frequency. Managers in particular are faced with the challenge of actively dealing with cyber security threats. Attackers are using increasingly sophisticated methods such as AI-supported attacks, phishing or ransomware to jeopardise companies and critical infrastructures. It is therefore essential to implement suitable protective measures in good time and adapt organisational processes accordingly.
Cybersecurity threats: Recognising challenges and risks
Cybersecurity threats are on the rise in many industries and represent a growing danger for companies, especially SMEs. One common example is the use of phishing emails to deceive employees in companies and trick them into handing over sensitive data. For example, a mechanical engineering company from North Rhine-Westphalia reported that a supposed price list update with malicious code paralysed its entire production for days and caused high costs.
At the same time, companies in the healthcare sector are experiencing more frequent ransomware attacks, in which systems are encrypted and only released again after a ransom is paid. E-commerce companies are also increasingly confronted with attacks using manipulated identities and deepfakes, which put a significant strain on IT security. Supply chains are also being targeted: one IT service provider experienced attacks that were initiated via suppliers, which emphasises the importance of holistic security concepts.
For these reasons, the threat of cyber attacks is no longer just an IT issue, but a strategic challenge for the entire management. State and criminal actors are increasing the pressure on critical infrastructures such as energy and water supplies in particular, which requires cross-border cooperation.
How decision-makers can now effectively protect themselves against cyber security threats
Managers must actively include the topic of cyber security threats in their agenda and think beyond purely technical solutions. The following three practical measures will help:
1. building digital resilience and resilience
A company from the logistics sector comprehensively secured its data centres and fibre optic networks against power outages and targeted attacks. This resulted in significantly higher operational stability. A financial services provider also invested in redundant systems to prevent data loss and downtime. Similarly, a manufacturer of medical products proactively protects its cloud-based infrastructure against attacks, thereby minimising potential downtime.
2. combination of training and AI-supported monitoring
The continuous expansion of employee training is crucial to making phishing and social engineering attacks more difficult. A medium-sized software company regularly uses interactive workshops to raise awareness. At the same time, artificial intelligence monitors suspicious activity and alerts the security team at an early stage. This helped a production company to stop a ransomware attack before data was encrypted.
3. promotion of cooperation and industry-wide networks
An example from the chemical industry shows how companies in an alliance share information about current threats and security gaps. Similarly, a regional alliance of energy suppliers ensures a higher level of protection against state attacks through close cooperation and joint cyber exercises. The sharing of lessons learned at a telecommunications provider also improved defences against new malware in a targeted manner.
BEST PRACTICE at the customer (name hidden due to NDA contract) We supported the introduction of a holistic cyber security strategy at a manufacturing company. We supported management in the selection of future-proof technologies, the establishment of emergency processes and employee training. We also helped with the implementation of compliance requirements such as the NIS 2 directive in order to minimise risks more sustainably.
Cybersecurity threats: The issues facing managers today
Most decision-makers report that they are increasingly having to deal with protection against AI-supported attacks. In particular, the automated generation of malware or deceptive deepfake techniques pose new challenges. One manufacturing company is working intensively on post-quantum cryptography in order to protect sensitive data in the long term. Another relies on a hybrid strategy of technical security and employee training to minimise risks.
In addition, governance issues such as compliance with legal requirements (NIS-2 or Cyber Resilience Act) are increasingly coming into focus. Many managers are looking for support in developing practical measures and implementing binding standards to make their organisation more resilient.
My analysis
Cybersecurity threats are one of the biggest challenges facing companies in all sectors today. The threat situation is constantly growing, especially due to new technologies such as artificial intelligence and increasing digitalisation. The answers must be strategic: Investments in resilience, focussed employee training and cooperative security networks are important building blocks. Decision-makers should actively shape the issue and seek professional support in order to effectively reduce risks and secure business operations.
Further links from the text above:
Strategic priorities for cyber security 2025
Cyber insurance in the shadow of growing threats
For more information and if you have any questions, please contact Contact us or read more blog posts on the topic TRANSRUPTION here.
Deutsch 
English (UK)