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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is both a problem and a solution for increasing cyberattacks in Germany, indicating the need to approach new AI developments with optimism but caution. A research report by Information Services Group (ISG), a leading global technology research firm, reveals new insights.

About ISG and Provider Lens™ Research

ISG (Information Services Group), founded in 2006, is a leading global technology research and advisory firm. The ISG Provider Lens™ Quadrant research series combines data-driven research and real-world experience to help guide businesses in selecting appropriate sourcing partners.

The research currently covers various markets globally. A companion series, the ISG Provider Lens Archetype reports, provides evaluations from the perspective of specific buyer types. For further information, ISG’s webpage has additional details.

The growing threat from cyberattacks

The 2023 ISG Provider Lens™ Cybersecurity – Solutions and Services report for Germany shows that more sophisticated and AI-driven cyberattacks are troubling businesses. These firms seek AI-based solutions to combat this issue. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face particular challenges, says the ISG report.

According to Roger Albrecht, partner and co-lead of ISG Cybersecurity in Germany, SMEs are attractive targets. He states that these companies often struggle with outdated security systems and rush to update them.

Need for managed security services

The ISG report also highlights a lack of qualified resources and the requirement for updated specialist knowledge. This drives German companies to opt for managed security services. Both large and medium-sized customers prefer Security Operations Centers (SOCs) located in Germany, due to data protection concerns.

Although AI and automation are vital in fighting cyberattacks, human expertise remains essential. The human factor can be both a remedy and a cause for cybersecurity issues. ISG points out that user carelessness, like falling victim to phishing attacks, increases vulnerability. User training and consulting also play a significant role, ISG adds.

Legal regulations and compliance challenges

ISG stresses that legal regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU also demand stronger security measures. Compliance remains a major challenge, especially for medium-sized companies.

Jan Erik Aase, partner and global leader of ISG Provider Lens Research, says companies realise they can’t fight this battle alone. They turn to experienced providers who use AI to proactively guard against cyberthreats.

Understanding and contextualising information

Organisations are adopting Extended Detection & Response (XDR) solutions to better understand information gathered from various security tools within their IT infrastructure, as per the report.

Provider capabilities and market leaders

The report evaluates 107 providers across seven quadrants including Identity & Access Management, Data Leakage/Loss Prevention, Extended Detection & Response, and Managed Security Services – SOC. IBM is named as a Leader in six quadrants, and Eviden (Atos) in four. Various other companies like Accenture, Deutsche Telekom, and Microsoft are also named as leaders in multiple quadrants.

Rising Stars, companies seen as having a promising portfolio and high future potential, are named in one quadrant each. They include glueckkanja-gab, HPE (Aruba), Imprivata, Infosys, suresecure, and Trellix.

Customised versions of the report are available from several providers and it’s accessible to subscribers or for a one-time purchase on ISG’s webpage.

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