Vienna Insurance Group (VIG) has launched an initiative to strengthen protection against growing cyber threats, with financial support from the European Union's European Cybersecurity Competence Centre (ECCC). This program focuses on expertise from three competence centers in Austria, Poland, and the Czech Republic.
As cyber-attacks, especially those using artificial intelligence like deepfakes, become more frequent, VIG is committed to robust defense measures. The World Economic Forum's "Global Risk Report 2024" highlights AI-driven misinformation as the top risk for the next two years, with cyber insecurity ranking fourth among the top ten risks.
Gerhard Lahner, VIG’s Chief Operating Officer, stresses the need for adaptable security strategies: "The methods and attempts of external attacks are constantly changing. We have therefore established a Group-wide Cyber Defence Centre program to protect our business and our Group customers from the risk of cyber-attacks and to further increase VIG’s security level. We are very pleased that the EU recognizes our activities and supports the program."
The Cyber Defence Center (CDC) program employs information security experts to detect, analyze, and mitigate cyber threats using advanced technology and semi-automated processes. VIG’s IT systems are continuously monitored, and the CDC operates around the clock to respond swiftly to any threats.
The three competence centers enhance VIG's ability to detect and prevent security incidents, promoting cross-border knowledge sharing and best practices within the Group. This initiative also includes information events, awareness campaigns for employees and partners, and digital media outreach to foster a high level of cybersecurity awareness among VIG's stakeholders.
Through these comprehensive efforts, Vienna Insurance Group is ensuring the protection of its customers and IT infrastructure in an increasingly digital world.