We Research: Fighting cyber threats in Satakunta's industry
Satakunta's industry plays a key role in Finland's economy, and its digitalisation brings new challenges for cybersecurity. Satakunta University of Applied Sciences' RoboAI research center has launched the Kytee project, which aims to strengthen the cyber security capabilities of companies in the region and protect their operations from potential cyber threats. Digitalisation is making industrial environments more vulnerable to cyber attacks and threats. The aim is to create a secure environment that also meets the requirements of the European Union's new NIS2 (Network and Information Security Directive).
The research focuses on cybersecurity vulnerabilities, particularly related to the digital systems and environments of Satakunta's industrial sector. The project will analyse the cyber risks faced by businesses in the region, such as vulnerabilities in network infrastructure, security holes and potential user errors. Particular attention will be paid to the needs of industry, where a security failure in the digitalised processes of production and logistics can cause serious disruptions.
The project will use a wide range of research and development methodologies. The Kytee project will, for example, organise cybersecurity mapping exercises to identify the current state of enterprises and potential areas for cybersecurity development. A cybersecurity training environment will be created on the SAMK campus to serve as a test bed for companies. This environment will be used to practice, for example, detecting and countering attacks in a simulation situation. Training sessions will also be organised to strengthen the cybersecurity skills of company staff.
The information generated by the research and the tools developed will be used in a variety of ways. Primarily, the Kytee project will support companies to create effective cybersecurity strategies and improve their operational cybersecurity. For example, an individual company can adopt the methods developed by the project to respond to attacks and develop the ability of its staff to identify suspicious activity. Companies will be equipped to respond effectively to potential cyber-attacks, which will help reduce business disruption and protect their reputation. Enhancing cybersecurity also provides a competitive advantage, as strong cybersecurity practices increase the trust of customers and partners.
Did you know?
- NIS2 Directive: The Cybersecurity Directive has entered into force in Finland on 18.10.2024. The NIS2 Directive obliges in particular critical and important actors in different sectors to comply with cybersecurity guidelines. The Directive introduces new requirements that directly affect the cybersecurity activities of companies and, in particular, require improved protection of digital systems.
- NIS2 self-assessment tool: The NIS2 self-assessment tool developed by the Kytee project will help organisations to assess and improve their level of cyber security to meet the requirements of the NIS2 Directive. The tool contains several components covering key aspects of cybersecurity. By answering the tool's questions, an organisation can gain a clear picture of its current situation and possible areas for improvement. The browser-based tool is completely free and all data entered is processed and stored only in the user's browser, ensuring security and privacy.
- Satakunta industry: The region of Satakunta has a strong concentration of manufacturing industry, with production lines accounting for a significant share of companies' activities. Production systems are vulnerable to potential cyber-attacks, which in the worst case could halt production and cause significant economic losses.
- The importance of networking: The Kytee project promotes cooperation between businesses in the region by supporting the sharing of information on security breaches and the development of common security practices. A well-functioning collaborative network strengthens cybersecurity levels and improves business resilience to cyber threats.
- Cybersecurity training environment: The cybersecurity training environment developed by Kytee will allow companies to test new cybersecurity solutions and practice cyber threat management in a secure and controlled environment. At the same time, it helps companies to understand the concrete impact of cyber threats and practice how to respond to them in practice.