Volker Wissing: Protection of critical infrastructure is becoming increasingly important

Volker Wissing: Protection of critical infrastructure is becoming increasingly important

cyber attacks and IT breakdowns are now ubiquitous topics in the digital world. However, the challenges associated with these developments show more in a new era of digitization. Volker Wissing, the Federal Minister of Digital and Transport and Member of the Free Democratic Party (FDP), recently warned of an increase in such incidents.

The importance of security concepts

Wissing emphasizes the need for robust security strategies in Germany. It emphasizes that the number and extent of cyber incidents will probably increase, since digitization and especially the use of artificial intelligence are rapid. This technology is not only used to improve services, but is also used in criminal actions, such as in cyber attacks.

Effects of the crowdstrike breakdown

A recent example of such challenges is the IT breakdown of the American company Crowdstrike, which resulted in extensive disorders in international air traffic and various sectors such as supermarkets and banks. The causes were attributed to a faulty software update, which shows the susceptibility of digital systems.

Need of redundancies

In order to be prepared for such incidents, Wissing demands that there should always be a "plan B". He explains that there are already concepts in Germany that work in crisis situations. For example, alternative airports could be used after the Berlin airport could not be flown in due to the crowdstrike breakdown. Redundances are crucial to ensure the functionality of the critical infrastructure so that there is no danger to the population in an emergency

Protection of critical infrastructure strengthen

Against the background of rising threats, critical infrastructures such as railway lines and airports must be better protected. Deutsche Bahn has already taken measures to strengthen security. This includes the use of over 10,000 cameras along the route network and the expansion of the security staff to 4,500 forces. Such steps are necessary to do justice to the fact that times become more challenging.

conclusion: outlook on a safe digital future

The call from Volker Wissing to strengthen digital security structures is an important step into the future. The eventualities of cyber attacks and IT breakdowns require proactive measures to maintain trust in digital systems and to ensure the security of citizens. With the right strategies and investments, Germany could be on the right track of staying safe in a digitized world.