Wissing forecasts an increase in IT breakdowns
A recent glitch at cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike caused global disruptions. According to Digital Minister Wissing, such incidents will become more frequent in the future. Therefore, a concept for damage mitigation is crucial. Wissing sees Germany well-equipped.
IT glitches like the recent one at American cybersecurity specialist Crowdstrike, or cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, will happen more often in the future, according to Federal Digital Minister Volker Wissing. "It will increase because the level of digitization is rising," the FDP politician said in Mainz. "And it will increase because Artificial Intelligence is rapidly accelerating digitization."
Artificial Intelligence is also being used by criminal elements to carry out cyberattacks. Recently, the IT glitch at Crowdstrike caused widespread disruptions worldwide, including near-gridlock of air traffic in many places. Supermarkets, banks, hospitals, TV stations, and other facilities were also affected. Crowdstrike blamed a faulty update of software for Windows computers.
Wissing said in Mainz that Germany needs appropriate security concepts. After the Berlin airport couldn't operate due to the aftermath of the glitch, alternative airports were used according to a concept designed for such cases. The goal is always to build redundancies in critical infrastructure, also to be prepared for attacks like the recent one on the French rail network. This could be an alternative airport, an alternative train route, or a second cable to replace a damaged one.
Infrastructure must be better protected
"It's always important to have a Plan B, and even better, more than one," said Wissing. "Redundancies are crucial to ensure that an attack doesn't have its intended effect and that the infrastructure remains usable." The Crowdstrike case showed that this system works in Germany. "There was no danger to human life." However, it's clear that critical infrastructure like train tracks and airports need to be protected more than ever before.
The German Railway has significantly increased its security measures. There are now 10,000 cameras at around 800 locations on the track network, 2,000 more than before. In the S-Bahn trains operated by the railway, there are more than 50,000 cameras, and the railway has 4,500 security personnel and is continuing to expand its security staff. "We must be aware that the times are unfortunately becoming more difficult."
Given the increased frequency and sophistication of cyber threats, such as the recent disruption caused by the Crowdstrike glitch, the necessity of strengthening cybersecurity measures becomes paramount. The Commission shall be assisted by the European Parliament in drafting comprehensive strategies to enhance cybersecurity and mitigate potential damage.
The European Parliament, with its expertise in digital policy, can play a significant role in shaping and implementing policies that will bolster cybersecurity capabilities and ensure that critical infrastructure like transportation systems are better protected against future attacks.
