Cyberattacks are part of everyday life today – 65% of companies, according to the industry association Bitkom, see themselves as potentially existentially threatened by them. The damage ranges from production downtimes to business-threatening crises. But the days when information security was solely anchored in IT are over. We explain why protecting sensitive information affects all areas of a company – and how it can succeed.
Rethinking Security Awareness
The past years have clearly shown that security affects every department – not just IT. With the rapid rise of remote work, cloud, and AI technologies, requirements have changed dramatically, and complexity has increased.
Mistakes Are Human
Even the best firewall cannot prevent employees from accidentally opening a prepared link. Such human errors cannot be completely avoided, which makes it all the more important to create awareness of risks. Digital flexibility opens many opportunities, but at the same time brings new dangers.
But absolute security does not exist – even large corporations or government agencies are not spared. Therefore, information security must be understood as a continuous process that only works if everyone in the company is on board. This applies especially in view of the growing complexity due to the increasing use of AI.
From Individual Problem to System: What Modern Information Security Means
In many companies, IT and information security are still equated. Yet information security means much more than just protecting digitally stored data, as it encompasses all media in which information is processed. Whether on paper or in digital form – information remains information and deserves the same protection.
IT Security versus Information Security
While IT security protects information within IT systems, information security considers protection regardless of the medium – digital, analog, or spoken. The three protection goals always remain decisive: confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
The Risks of Data Leaks
The consequences of losing availability, for example through data leaks, can be enormous. They range from production downtime to significant financial losses and reputational damage. The German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) estimates that in 2024 alone, around €266 billion flowed to cybercriminals. For affected companies, the loss of reputation often weighs as heavily as direct financial damage.
The Goal of Cybersecurity
Information security must not be thought of solely in technical terms, because it concerns the entire company. The three central protection goals – confidentiality, integrity, and availability – are relevant to all business areas, regardless of whether processes are digital or analog. Policies alone are not enough, because lived information security only arises through shared attitude, open dialogue, and mutual understanding. Only then can measures be implemented in everyday life. Employees therefore need to understand how they can personally contribute to security – and why this contribution is important. Information security must not feel like a rigid corset, but should seamlessly integrate into daily workflows.
What Is Behind ISMS and ISO 27001?
An Information Security Management System (ISMS) structures and manages all measures for information security within a company. It encompasses policies, processes, technical and organizational measures, as well as training – with the goal of making information security measurable, verifiable, and continuously improving.
Information Security with a System
A functioning ISMS builds trust – with customers, partners, and investors. It also makes risks such as data loss, cyberattacks, and reputational damage manageable and provides a solid foundation for complying with legal requirements such as the GDPR.
What an ISMS Consists Of
An ISMS steers information security efforts through strategic risk management and the collection of relevant key figures. It also includes regular employee training and continuous review and improvement – through audits and management reviews, among other things.
The Role of ISO 27001
The ISO 27001 standard is the internationally leading standard for information security management systems. It provides orientation and serves as proof of effective management of information security.
Information Security in Everyday Life
Security must be considered at all levels – from the data center to every department.
COViS decided early on to pursue ISO 27001 certification. The information security team coordinates both technical and strategic aspects – always with a clear focus on proactive action.
The Influence and Role of an Information Officer
The Information Security Officer creates the framework for secure action, while responsibility remains within the respective departments. Together with departments, protection needs are analyzed and corresponding measures are defined to effectively minimize risks.
Those who know exactly which information must be protected can assess risks in a targeted manner and implement tailored measures – for example, with access controls, password standards, or onboarding processes.
Dialogue at Eye Level
Open communication is essential to promote understanding of security measures. As a result, policies are not only accepted but also implemented in daily work, and potential vulnerabilities can be identified early.
What Do Our Customers Gain from This?
Customers can rely on the fact that information security at COViS is not a coincidence but the result of careful planning and implementation.
We understand information security as a competitive advantage.
How Information Security Succeeds in Companies
Uncertainty or silo thinking are typical hurdles in implementing an ISMS. This makes a shared, practical approach all the more important. When teams actively help shape security processes, acceptance increases. This not only boosts motivation but also lowers existing barriers. In addition, good training should consider employees’ individual needs and levels of experience – because the biggest challenge does not lie in technology but with people.
Conclusion: Information Security Is a Mindset and a Competitive Advantage
Information security is a joint project. It strengthens trust, resilience, and future viability – provided it is carried and understood by everyone in the company.
