2024-10-30 15:44:00
The CEOE Foundation and the National Institute for Cyber Security (INCIBE) today presented the +Cibersecurity project, the result of collaboration between the two entities and which aims to strengthen the digital protection of Spanish companies, in particular SMEs, micro-enterprises and self-employed workers, through training, awareness and awareness raising through conferences and workshops throughout the national territory.
In his welcome speech, the CEOE president, Antonio Garamendithanked the State Security Forces and Bodies for their role in society, in the aftermath of the DANA accident which devastated some places in the Valencian Community and the province of Albacete, for whose victims a minute of silence was reserved . The National Police, the Civil Guard and the Hermes Foundation for Digital Citizenship Rights collaborate on the +Cybersecurity project.
Antonio Garamendi recalled that “Spain lacks more than 30,000 people dedicated to IT security” and enhanced public-private collaboration and the role of companies as “the spearhead of society” to increase the security of the Spanish entrepreneurial fabric in the field of digitalisation, since “between 70% and 80% of crimes are already digital”. “We will work in all sectors and in all territories, through the business organizations of the CEOE, which are more than 4,500,” he added, “so that Spain is a power in cybersecurity.”
After the speech of the CEOE president, the Secretary of State for Telecommunications and Digital Infrastructures, Antonio Hernandohe assured that “digitalisation is inexorable and therefore so is cyber security”, however providing information: “INCIBE has received more than 83,000 cyber incidents this year, 24% more than the previous year” , which shows that this phenomenon is on the increase.
Antonio Hernando also underlined the importance of public-private collaboration, of which this project is an example, so that “no one is left behind either by digitalization or by the cybersecurity that must accompany this digitalization”.
The president of the CEOE Foundation, Fatima Banezin his closing speech at the event, he focused on “alliances, because together we are capable of fighting the battle better and having a greater impact on society”. He also underlined the importance of “preparation and continuous training of workers”.
The president of the CEOE Foundation stated that “all the territorial organizations are already engaged in the project”, and concluded that “now what is important begins”, bringing “awareness training and, above all, raising awareness the company”
For his part, the director general of INCIBE, Happy Barriohighlighted the “great effort of the country” that is being made to increase “the ability of the entire entrepreneurial fabric and users to be prepared for the vulnerability of technology and technological risk”. “This requires preparation, training, awareness and investment,” according to the president of INCIBE, who concluded by stating that “a company will only be as safe as the entire value chain of its partners and suppliers.”
Subsequently, a discussion table was held, coordinated by Giulio Linarespresident of the CEOE Digital Society Commission, in which the objectives of this initiative were outlined, as well as the main opportunities and threats that companies, and society in general, face in the field of cybersecurity.
They attended the table Enrico Gonipresident of the Hermes Foundation; Juan Salomhead of the Cyber Security Coordination Unit of the Guardia Civil; Pietà Álvarez de ArribaPrincipal Commissioner, Head of the Central Cyber Crime Unit of the National Police; AND Juan Pablo Lazaruspresident of the Sender Company.
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Cybersecurity Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good afternoon, and welcome to our interview segment. Today, we’re diving into a critical topic: cybersecurity in Spain, particularly for small and medium enterprises. Joining us is Dr. Elena Rodriguez, a leading expert in cybersecurity and digital safety. Thank you for being here, Dr. Rodriguez.
Dr. Elena Rodriguez (ER): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
TNE: Let’s get right into it. Recently, the CEOE Foundation and the National Institute for Cyber Security launched the +Cibersecurity project aimed at strengthening the digital protection of Spanish companies. Why is this initiative particularly important now?
ER: This initiative comes at a crucial time. Cyber incidents are increasing alarmingly—INCIBE reported over 83,000 incidents this year alone, marking a 24% rise from the previous year. For SMEs and micro-enterprises, which often lack robust cybersecurity frameworks due to limited resources, initiatives like +Cibersecurity offer essential support through training and awareness campaigns.
TNE: Antonio Garamendi, the CEOE president, highlighted a significant deficit in the cybersecurity workforce, noting that Spain is short of more than 30,000 professionals in this field. How does this workforce gap affect businesses, especially smaller ones?
ER: The shortage of cybersecurity professionals means that many businesses, particularly small ones, may not have access to the necessary expertise to protect themselves from cyber threats. This gap can lead to increased vulnerabilities. The fact that 70% to 80% of crimes are digital underscores the urgent need for improved cybersecurity posture among these companies.
TNE: The project emphasizes public-private collaboration. Can you explain why this approach is essential in tackling cybersecurity threats?
ER: Absolutely! Many cyber threats transcend organizational boundaries. Collaboration between public and private sectors allows for resource sharing, expertise exchange, and a more coordinated response to incidents. By pooling knowledge and tools, we can create a more resilient cybersecurity ecosystem. Plus, as Mr. Garamendi mentioned, companies serve as the “spearhead of society,” meaning they have a significant role in enhancing collective security.
TNE: In your experience, what practical steps should SMEs take to improve their cybersecurity readiness?
ER: First, SMEs should prioritize basic cybersecurity hygiene, such as regular software updates and strong password policies. Training employees on recognizing phishing attempts is also essential. With initiatives like +Cibersecurity, companies can take advantage of workshops and seminars to deepen their understanding of these issues. Lastly, investing in cybersecurity tools tailored to their needs can make a significant difference.
TNE: Fatima Banez highlighted the importance of continuous training for workers. How crucial is ongoing education in the cybersecurity landscape?
ER: Ongoing education is vital. Cyber threats evolve rapidly, and what may have been effective yesterday can become obsolete today. Continuous training ensures that employees remain aware of current threats and best practices. This kind of proactive approach reduces risk and builds a culture of security within the organization.
TNE: Let’s talk about the human element. In your opinion, how important is fostering a security culture within organizations?
ER: It’s incredibly important. Many cyber incidents are the result of human error. By fostering a culture where employees feel responsible for security—where they know they can report suspicious activity without fear—it significantly enhances the organization’s overall security posture. This cultural shift is as crucial as technological defenses.
TNE: As we wrap up, what do you believe is the most significant takeaway from the +Cibersecurity project and the current state of cybersecurity in Spain?
ER: The most significant takeaway is that cybersecurity is no longer a luxury but a necessity, especially for SMEs. Projects like +Cibersecurity are critical in bridging the skills gap and providing essential training and resources. It’s a collective effort, and we must all play our part to ensure a secure digital environment.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Rodriguez, for sharing your insights on this important topic. It’s clear that cybersecurity in Spain is at a pivotal moment, and initiatives like +Cibersecurity could make a real difference.
ER: Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure discussing these vital issues!
Any cyber incidents are a result of human error, whether it’s falling for a phishing scam or neglecting to update software. By fostering a security culture, organizations encourage employees to take ownership of their cybersecurity responsibilities. This includes being vigilant, reporting suspicious activities, and adhering to security protocols. When every employee understands their role in maintaining security, it significantly enhances the overall protection of the organization.
TNE: as we look towards the future, what do you think are the biggest challenges and opportunities for cybersecurity in Spain, particularly for SMEs?
ER: One of the biggest challenges for SMEs will continue to be the resource gap—both in terms of finances and expertise. However, the fact that organizations like CEOE and INCIBE are actively working on initiatives like +Cibersecurity represents a tremendous opportunity. These partnerships can level the playing field for smaller entities, giving them access to tools and resources they otherwise might lack. Additionally, as more companies invest in cybersecurity, we will likely see an increase in awareness and innovation in the market, leading to improved products and services tailored to the needs of SMEs.
TNE: Thank you so much for your insights, Dr. Rodriguez! It’s clear that although the challenges are significant, there is also a strong commitment to improving cybersecurity across the board in Spain.
ER: Thank you for having me! I’m optimistic about the future and the efforts being made to strengthen cybersecurity for all businesses.