The digital transformation promises companies new opportunities to increase efficiency, innovate and compete. However, without a solid IT security strategy, it can also bring risks. Cyber attacks, data leaks and security breaches not only threaten the integrity of sensitive data, but can also destroy the trust of customers and partners. In this article, we will examine why information security is the basis for any digital transformation, what risks companies often overlook, and what solutions can help them meet these challenges.
Why information security is essential
Increasing digitalisation makes companies more vulnerable to cyber attacks. Whether a large corporation or a medium-sized company – no one is safe from the risks, as recent examples show:
- Cyber attack on a Berlin medical technology company: An attack led to the encryption of IT systems and slowed down critical business processes.
- Ransomware attack on municipal utilities: Public services were interrupted, causing great inconvenience to citizens.
- Digital blackmail of a British logistics company: The encryption of internal systems caused massive failures – operations were shut down shortly thereafter.
These examples make it clear: security should not be considered an afterthought. Companies must act proactively to minimise risks and put their digital transformation on a solid footing.
The most common mistakes and their consequences
Security is planned too late
Many companies only think about security when a system is already being developed or implemented. However, security problems that are ignored at the beginning are all the more difficult and expensive to fix later.
Example: A company invested a year in the development of a system, only to discover critical vulnerabilities during the final penetration test. The system had to be taken offline and extensively revised.
Solution:
- Security by Design: Security should be integrated into planning and development from the outset.
- Automated security checks: Regular checks during the development process minimise later risks.
Supply chain security is overlooked
Companies often secure their own systems but ignore the vulnerabilities in their supply chain. One example of this is the SolarWinds attack, in which malware entered numerous companies via a supposedly trusted software update. Or the critical vulnerability in Log4j: a widely used open-source component left companies worldwide vulnerable, often without their knowledge.
Solution:
- Risk management for third parties: Companies should regularly review which providers, service providers and open source components they use.
- Software Bill of Materials (SBOM): A detailed overview of all software components used helps to identify risks and respond quickly.
Underestimation of phishing attacks
Phishing remains one of the biggest threats to companies. Even large corporations such as Sony Pictures and Facebook have been victims of attacks using convincingly designed e-mails. A strong and open security culture can help to protect against this.
Solution:
- Employee training: Regular awareness programmes and simulated phishing attacks strengthen the so-called ‘human firewall’.
- Technical measures: Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and email filters protect against unauthorised access.
‘It won’t happen to us’ mentality
Many medium-sized companies believe that they are too small or uninteresting for hackers to attack. This misperception makes them an easy target, which can often have fatal consequences. One example is the cyber attack on the supermarket chain tegut: IT systems were paralysed, leading to supply bottlenecks and empty shelves – stolen data later ended up on the darknet.
Solution:
- Contingency plans and backups: Regular testing of backups and clear crisis plans ensure that companies can respond quickly even in an emergency.
- Attack simulations: Tabletop exercises and red teaming help to uncover vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.
Where do I start? The three pillars of secure digitalisation
Secure digitalisation requires a well-thought-out strategy, robust technologies and a strong security culture. These three pillars form the basis for secure digitalisation. Without them, IT security remains patchy – only their interaction ensures real protection and long-term resilience.
- Strategy & governance: Sustainable IT security begins with a clear strategy. This is not just about technical measures, but also about closely aligning business and security objectives.
- Technology & architecture: A strong IT security strategy needs the right technological basis. Modern companies rely on agile architectures in which security and the trustworthy handling of data are taken into account from the outset.
- Culture & awareness: Technology alone is not enough to protect companies in the long term. A strong security culture and the participation of all parties involved are crucial success factors.
When you combine these three pillars, you create a robust basis for your digital transformation. Start with small, pragmatic steps – and remember: security is a process that pays off in the long run.
IT security as a competitive advantage
A strong security strategy not only protects, but also enables digital transformation. Companies that integrate security into their processes benefit from:
- Trust from customers and partners: Security measures create credibility and strengthen business relationships.
- Cost efficiency: Proactive security measures are cheaper in the long term than repairing damage after an attack.
- Competitive advantage: companies that implement security as part of their digital strategy can respond more quickly and securely to market changes.
Conclusion
Information security is not an optional part of the digital transformation – it is the basis for sustainable success. Whether it’s incorporating security into the planning at an early stage, minimising supply chain risks or training employees, companies that act proactively not only protect their data, but also their reputation and competitiveness.
The digital world offers countless opportunities, but it also entails risks. Companies that invest in their security strategy today are laying the foundation for a successful and resilient future. Because one thing is for sure: the hackers won’t wait.
