Strengthening cyber defence and security: New study shows sustainable ways forward
Cédric Aeschlimann, scientific project manager at the Cyber-Defence Campus of armasuisse Science and Technology, heads the project “Cyber Training”. In his current study, he emphasises the growing threat through complex cyber attacks on Switzerland.
Julian Martin, specialist area Cyber Defence, competence sector armasuisse Science and Technology
The study, which was published in the stratos magazine, illustrates how national cyber defence can be strengthened and security ensured in the long term through coordinated and regular exercises, in particular also for civilian organisations.
Cyber attacks have increased significantly all over the world in the last few years, and even Switzerland is not spared. Attacks on critical infrastructures and public authorities are becoming increasingly complex and more focused. For this reason, comprehensive preparation of all those involved is crucial – not only for the military, but likewise for civilian organisations. Regular cyber exercises are important to be able to react quickly and in a coordinated manner in an emergency. Cyber training is not intended to be an individual basic training – rather, it concerns specific group exercises focusing on important interfaces (such as the interface between technology and management). Here, skills are tested and improved in secure, simulated scenarios. International exercises, in which Switzerland also takes part, such as the NATO Locked Shields or the EU Initiative Cyber Europe, indicate the significance of such training.
A study by the Cyber-Defence Campus (CYD Campus) examined the need for such training for civilian stakeholders in Switzerland. A survey amongst experts as well as interviews with specialists confirm that the demand for nationally coordinated cyber training is high. Many are prepared to take part, but see obstacles such as lack of time and too many parallel exercises.
The availability of cyber specialists, who are often scarce, is particularly problematic. In addition, many uncoordinated exercises exist in Switzerland, which can lead to excessive demands and inefficient deployment. Better coordination by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) aims to help overcome these challenges.
The goal is to strengthen Swiss security through well organised and regularly conducted cyber exercises. This requires the support of executive staff, clear information on available training and incentive for participation. This should contribute to increasing the resilience against cyber attacks in the long term.
Read the complete article on the study here: stratos 1 | 25