In a recent study conducted by the Cyber Intelligence Institute in collaboration with the cybersecurity company NordPass, the state of municipal cybersecurity in Germany has been analyzed from a legal and organizational perspective. The findings of the study reveal that cities and municipalities are facing a dilemma when it comes to cybersecurity.
On one hand, these municipalities are seen as attractive targets for cybercriminals due to the financial gains that can be made from stolen data or hacktivism campaigns aimed at achieving political goals. However, on the other hand, governmental institutions often lack strong cybersecurity defenses, making them vulnerable to attacks.
Security experts Dennis-Kenji Kipker and Tilmann Dittrich have identified several reasons for this vulnerability. They point to the complex legal landscape surrounding cybersecurity, with regulations like the DSGVO and BSIG impacting the industry but lacking comprehensive guidance. Additionally, the structure of cybersecurity responsibilities at the regional and local government levels in Germany is convoluted, with numerous stakeholders and unclear jurisdictions, making it challenging for municipalities to effectively implement cybersecurity measures.
To address these challenges, Kipker and Dittrich have outlined a set of best practices for municipalities to enhance their cybersecurity posture until necessary legal adjustments are made:
Firstly, it is crucial for municipal leadership to prioritize cybersecurity by implementing professional and standardized processes and emphasizing the importance of cyber resilience. Establishing cybersecurity as a top-level responsibility can build trust among the population and the business community, potentially serving as a competitive advantage for attracting new businesses to the region.
Furthermore, municipalities should adopt an all-hazards approach to cybersecurity, recognizing that cyber threats are just one element of a broader threat landscape. This comprehensive approach is essential for mitigating both cyber-related and non-cyber-related risks effectively.
Moreover, introducing a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or a team of experts dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity awareness within the municipality is essential. These experts can conduct training sessions to educate employees on cybersecurity best practices, and the independence of a CISO is crucial for ensuring impartial guidance.
For municipalities that rely on IT outsourcing due to resource constraints, it is imperative to select certified IT service providers and establish redundancies in digital supply chains to mitigate the risk of service interruptions.
Lastly, having a robust IT emergency plan in place is essential for municipalities to respond effectively to cyber incidents. Adequate preparation, implementation, and rehearsal of emergency response procedures are vital, with a focus on protecting critical processes during times of crisis.
In conclusion, the study highlights the urgent need for German municipalities to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses and adopt proactive measures to safeguard sensitive data and critical infrastructure from cyber threats. By implementing the recommended best practices, municipalities can enhance their cybersecurity posture and better protect their digital assets in an increasingly complex threat landscape.