Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly the focus of cyber attacks, the consequences of which can be serious for the companies affected. In order to strengthen preventive measures and close security gaps, the Ministry of the Interior of Baden-Württemberg and the cybersecurity agency, together with chambers of industry and commerce in the state, have developed a cybersecurity check. Since its introduction in autumn, more than 330 companies have already taken advantage of the offer.
Increasing threat of cyber attacks
Current figures illustrate the growing danger: in 2024, around 26 per cent more malware variants were discovered than in the previous year. According to the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) and the industry association Bitkom, the damage caused by cyber attacks reached 267 billion euros. Small and medium-sized companies are particularly at risk, as they often have less developed security structures.
‘We are the country of global market leaders and hidden champions,’ emphasised Minister of the Interior Thomas Strobl. ’To ensure our innovative strength, cyber security must be a matter for the boss. At the same time, all employees must be made aware of the risks.’
Simple and practical advice
The cybersecurity check was developed in collaboration with Aalen University, the Baden-Württemberg Cybersecurity Agency and the state’s chambers of commerce. The aim is to support SMEs with a low-threshold offer for analysing their IT security. The checks include identifying risks in day-to-day operations and making initial recommendations for action, which are summarised in a to-do list.
‘Many companies underestimate the risk of cyber attacks,’ explained Claus Paal, President of the Stuttgart Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK), which played a major role in the development. “With our security check, we help to identify and eliminate vulnerabilities.’
Success stories and testimonials
Claudia Hofmann, Managing Director of rhv-Technik GmbH & Co. KG, is convinced: ”The check was an eye-opener for us. We now know where the weak points are and how we can eliminate them.’ IT expert Roman Leonov from the Stuttgart Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry also emphasises the added value of the programme: ’Almost every company has been able to obtain valuable tips for improving IT security through the checks.’
Support in the event of incidents
In addition to preventive measures, the Cyber Security Agency Baden-Württemberg offers round-the-clock support in the event of cyber attacks. The ‘Cyber-Ersthilfe BW’ (0711-137-99999) hotline provides those affected with an initial assessment and further assistance. In addition, the Central Contact Point for Cybercrime (ZAC) of the State Office of Criminal Investigation is available to support companies in filing reports and containing damage.
Further information
Companies that want to improve their IT security can find more information on the websites www.csc-kmu.de and www.cybersicherheit-bw.de. These platforms offer preventive tips, training materials and the latest security information to help companies meet the challenges of the digital world.
