Bavaria in focus: Scientists demand better cybersecurity for everyone!

Bavaria in focus: Scientists demand better cybersecurity for everyone!

Many users feel overwhelmed when it comes to their security in today's digital world. The increasing networking of devices is constantly creating new areas of attack for cybercriminals. While companies often have special departments for digitalization and security, such structures are often missing in the private sector. Recognizing these challenges, the EU has designated October as Cybersecurity Month. Today, October 1, 2025, these topics are more relevant than ever. Scientists from the Bavarian research network ForDaySec, which is coordinated by the University of Passau, have outlined various cybersecurity scenarios in a white paper, emphasizing social responsibility.

The white paper highlights that cybersecurity must be viewed as a task for society as a whole. Responsibilities should be shared to create a broader foundation for digital security. Bavarian industry, coupled with excellent research and innovative spirit, creates ideal conditions for developing a model region for digital everyday security in Europe. Prof. Dr. Stefan Katzenbeisser emphasizes that not everything can be built absolutely safely, but many systems can be integrated safely. In addition, Dr. Henrich C. Pöhls for more offline capability of smart solutions to protect user privacy.

Recommendations for action and scientific perspectives

The white paper provides specific recommendations for action to improve digital security. In computer science, smart home applications should be developed with artificial intelligence (AI) that are operated locally and decentrally. Retailers are encouraged to secure supply chain updates and seek legal advice. In addition, a systemic understanding of responsibility and everyday logic is necessary in order to effectively implement security precautions. Prof. Dr. Thomas Riehm demands that digital products must continue to be supported after purchase to ensure security.

Artificial intelligence plays a central role in cybersecurity. Analog security measures can no longer keep up with the rapid development of digital threats such as phishing, ransomware and advanced persistent threats (APTs). AI offers new possibilities for detecting and defending against such cyber threats. AI systems are able to analyze large amounts of data in real time, recognize patterns and continuously learn. This allows for effective monitoring of traffic, user behavior and system logs.

The future of cybersecurity with AI

The use of AI in cybersecurity not only ensures faster threat detection, but also relieves security teams of repetitive tasks. AI helps reduce false positives and focuses analysts' attention on real threats. However, companies face implementation challenges, including high costs, the need for high-quality data, and ethical issues surrounding data privacy.

To be prepared for the digital future, companies must implement various practical steps. This includes ensuring data quality, combining AI with human expertise and regular updates to the AI ​​models. Training employees about AI-powered attacks and developing resilience against manipulative attacks are also important.

In summary, the role of AI in cybersecurity is undisputed and will continue to grow in the coming years. Companies that invest in AI early and establish a robust security culture will be better equipped to address ongoing cyber threats. In this context, the views of the scientists and the recommendations for action developed are essential in order to sustainably strengthen digital security in both private and corporate environments. You can find out more about this in the articles from Digital Passau, IT Portal 24 and Info Point Security.

Further information can be found here: Digital Passau, IT portal 24 and Info Point Security.