On March 13, 2025, a top-class symposium on the topic of “Deceptively real – recognizing cyber traps” took place as part of the 75th International Crafts Fair Munich. Digitalization has long since arrived in the skilled trades and offers countless opportunities, from new business models to optimized processes. But as the benefits grow, so do the risks – especially in the area of cybercrime.
Bavaria’s State Secretary for Economic Affairs Tobias Gotthardt opened the event and emphasized the central role of fact-based information in today’s world. “Information is the raw material of the 21st century,” said Gotthardt. It forms the basis for well-founded decisions – both in business and in everyday life. This makes it all the more important to find out about secure ways to digitize and at the same time remain vigilant against cyber threats.
Florian Hansemann: Recognize cyber attacks & avoid damage
“A particular highlight of the event was the presentation by Florian HansemannManaging Director of HanseSecure GmbH and renowned expert in the field of IT security. Under the title “Recognizing cyber attacks & avoiding damage” Hansemann impressively demonstrated how professionally organized cyber criminals now operate and the particular challenges this poses for small and medium-sized craft businesses in particular.
But Hansemann did not stop at pointing out the dangers. He also focused on preventive measuresthat can be implemented without a large IT budget:
- Raising employee awareness of digital threats
- Introduction of secure passwords and two-factor authentication
- Regular updates and patch management
- Emergency plans for emergencies
His appeal:
“Safety starts with people. Technical solutions are important, but only effective if the workforce is aware of the risks and acts accordingly.”
Further impulses and practical discussion
In addition to Hansemann, other experts also enriched the symposium. Prof. Dr. Jasmin Riedl from the University of the Federal Armed Forces in Munich shed light on the effects of disinformation on the skilled trades, while Manuel Bach from the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) presented strategies for prevention and emergency management.
The event was rounded off with an open discussion round, moderated by Dr. Frank Hüpers, during which participants were able to ask individual questions and talk directly to the expert speakers.
Conclusion: making the most of digital opportunities
The symposium impressively demonstrated that digitalization in the skilled trades holds enormous potential – but not without risks. Florian Hansemann made it clear that cybersecurity is no longer a marginal issue, but an indispensable prerequisite for economic success.
If you want to use digital business models, you also need to take action when it comes to security. The good news is that a lot can be achieved with simple measures – if you know what is important.
