Weidmüller supports the first IT security platform of the VDE: CERT@VDE

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The German Mittelstand (small and medium-sized enterprises) is increasingly exposed to cyberattacks, with small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) being particularly affected. These companies often lack the resources to defend themselves against cyberattacks. The Association of Electrical Engineering (VDE) has launched the IT security platform CERT@VDE as a solution. CERT@VDE is the first platform for coordinating IT security issues for SMEs in the field of industrial automation. Weidmüller supports and utilizes the security platform CERT@VDE; furthermore, Weidmüller’s security advisories will be publicly announced via the platform in the future.

In the realization of industrial production according to Industry 4.0, information and communication technology, digitalization, and automation technology are sustainably interconnected. As the networking of production facilities advances, the risk of cyberattacks increases. The consequences include system and production failures, malfunctions with accident implications, as well as industrial espionage and sabotage. Therefore, it is essential to strengthen IT security as a critical success factor for Industry 4.0 and digitalization. There are various ways to achieve this: firstly, through improved prevention during system development; secondly, through the rapid detection of new security vulnerabilities; and thirdly, through systematic and coordinated responses to attacks. This is where CERT@VDE comes in: the first platform for coordinating IT security issues, tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the field of industrial automation.

The platform offers manufacturers, integrators, plant builders, and operators in the field of industrial automation the opportunity to exchange information intensively and trustfully. Weidmüller, as a partner in industrial automation, supports and uses CERT@VDE, the IT security platform for SMEs. Through CERT@VDE, Weidmüller announces its security advisories and thus helps participants establish efficient and effective security structures.

The security platform enables an open, cross-manufacturer exchange on a neutral, trustworthy, and secure platform — of course, while maintaining anonymity. Previously isolated information is now centrally consolidated, structured, and distributed within CERT@VDE. This ensures that various industry participants are always on the same and current knowledge level regarding security standards and threats. Companies affected by an attack can also quickly obtain an assessment of the situation and assistance from IT experts. Weidmüller fully supports and promotes the activities of CERT@VDE.