In The News
Insights from SKYDD24: How to Protect Your Business in a Changing World
Stockholm, 30th of October 2024
At SKYDD24, Kim Elman discussed the biggest security trends that are affecting businesses and societies today. Along with other industry experts, he discussed how companies can safeguard their most valuable assets and stay ahead in an increasingly complex threat environment.
SKYDD24 is the largest security fair in the Nordics, bringing together top experts in the field. Kim Elman, Country Manager at Northwave Security, took part in a panel called "The Right Protection for Your Business? Trendspotting with Leading Experts,” where he discussed the latest trends alongside Andreas Glansborg, CEO of Coor Service Management, and Stefan Aimer, CEO of SystemHouse Solutions. Jeanette Lesslie Wikström, CEO of SäkerhetsBranschen, served as the moderator.
The importance of security was clear, with a packed audience and a lot of interest. One of the key issues raised was how ongoing geopolitical conflicts are increasing the threat level.
“The security situation we see today has worsened due to geopolitical conflicts worldwide. Threat actors, both from states and criminal groups, are becoming increasingly motivated and sometimes even collaborate, which can make it harder to tell them apart,” says Kim.
With this complex threat environment, businesses need to take a more proactive approach to their security.
“It’s no longer enough to just identify risks. Companies need to constantly update their security strategies to address ever-changing threats. In this new global environment, security measures must be adapted continuously,” he explains.
Technological Advancements and Stricter Regulations
Another significant driver behind the increasing security pressure is the introduction of new and stricter regulations. EU laws such as NIS2 and DORA are forcing companies to take extensive measures to strengthen their cybersecurity.
“This isn’t about voluntary recommendations,” Kim explains. “If companies fail to comply with these new regulations, they risk not only large fines but also personal liability for the management. To stay competitive, companies must show that they take these issues very seriously.”
At the same time, technological advancements, including breakthroughs in generative AI and machine learning, present both challenges and opportunities – especially as they can be used for both defence and attack.
“These new technologies can be used both offensively and defensively, and attackers often have the upper hand because it is difficult to predict exactly how they will use the technology. Disinformation and deepfakes have also become powerful weapons, particularly in fraud and influence campaigns,” Kim adds.
A Three-Step Approach to Security
To help businesses stay ahead of threats, Kim outlines a three-step model focused on awareness, motivation, and method. The model aims to help companies build the capabilities needed to effectively manage security threats.
“The first step is about awareness – understanding what is happening both externally and internally. Companies must follow developments and understand the implications for their business. By looking at the threat landscape and identifying vulnerabilities, companies can start prioritising their security actions,” Kim explains.
“The next step is motivation. Companies need to recognise the connection between security and their business goals. It’s not just about seeing security as a cost, but understanding that failing to act could be far more expensive and damaging to the business.”
The final step in the model is the method – determining how to proceed.
“When we know what we need to do and why, we must find the right method to protect ourselves. Many companies need help building their security capabilities, but they also need help earlier in the process, in understanding their risks and weaknesses. By aligning security efforts with business goals, companies can act both cost-effectively and purposefully,” Kim concludes.
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