Smart-X: How companies can increase the cyber security of technologies and devices

As a result of the digital transformation, the economy and society are facing a new era of comprehensive connectivity. Connected devices will lead to significant changes in all sectors. In addition to growth opportunities, the accelerated further development of so-called Smart X technologies - including 5G networks and edge computing - brings with it complex new data management tasks. Particular focus: cyber threats. In our white paper "Smart-X - A holistic approach to cybersecurity for smart devices", we take a detailed look at the key challenges. We also explain how a five-stage concept can support holistic governance.

What is certain is that Smart X technologies will enable future leaps in innovation in terms of autonomous communication and the analysis of objects, processes and systems. The result: greater efficiency - and profound change. According to estimates, the number of networked devices will increase significantly in the coming years. Advances are also expected in wearable devices, autonomous vehicles and shopping experiences through augmented and virtual reality applications, for example.

The framework conditions with regard to data protection, privacy and defense against cyber attacks - whether for smart home devices or in the Internet of Things (IoT) - must be adapted accordingly by stakeholders. In order to ensure security, it is necessary to consider the entire life cycle of smart X devices, including the supply chain, from secure design to decommissioning of products.

Our governance approach explained in the white paper helps companies to identify, analyze and mitigate potential cyber risks in the long term. The concept covers the entire Smart-X security cycle in five steps. It focuses on the essential aspects in these five fields of action:

1. Design, development and production
2. Procurement
3. Implementation and operation
4. Maintenance and support
5. Decommissioning