The Growing Threat Landscape for Small Businesses

Cybersecurity is no longer a concern solely for large corporations. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), notably craft businesses, are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks.Recent statistics paint a stark picture: in 2023, approximately 58% of German companies experienced a cyberattack, resulting in an economic impact exceeding €200 billion, according to Bitkom. The daily revelation of around 300,000 new malware strains, with approximately 92% spread via email, underscores the urgency for robust IT security measures.

Baden-Württemberg Crafts initiative: Free IT Security Seminars

Recognizing this growing threat, the Chamber of Crafts Mannheim Rhein-Neckar-Odenwald, in collaboration with other Baden-Württemberg crafts organizations, is offering a series of free online seminars designed to equip members with essential IT security knowledge. These seminars provide an accessible and practical approach to cybersecurity, tailored specifically for craft businesses.

The next event, scheduled for Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 10 a.m., will focus on What to do in the event of IT security incidents? This crucial topic will provide attendees with actionable strategies for responding effectively to cyberattacks and minimizing potential damage.

Seminar Focus: From Data Leaks to Human Error

These online events cover a wide range of critical IT security topics, including data leaks, the risk factor human, and various types of cyberattacks. Participants will gain insights into assessing their company’s IT security posture, promoting digital vigilance among employees, and implementing practical tips to enhance overall security. The seminars also address cyberattack response strategies and available support resources.

The series of events offers a targeted expansion of your own know-how and the practical exchange for questions and concerns with an experienced expert.

Expert Insights and practical Application

According to Aaron Maier,technical advisor to the chamber of Crafts in Mannheim,the seminars offer an entry and practice-oriented recommendations for action. Each session is designed to provide attendees with immediately applicable knowledge and skills.

Each online event will be held on a Thursday and will last 30 minutes, followed by a Q&A session with an expert, allowing participants to address specific concerns and exchange ideas.

Registration and Further Information

Interested individuals must register in advance. Contact ms. Behrens from the ITB via email at registration@itb.de to secure your spot.

For general inquiries about cybersecurity, Aaron Maier, the technical consultant at the Mannheim Rhein-Neckar-Odenwald crafts Chamber, is available by phone at 0621 18002-146 or via email at aaron.maier@hwk-mannheim.de.

Funded Initiative for Regional Growth

This series of events is part of the Competence Center Smart Services initiative, supported by funding from the Ministry of Economics, Labor and Tourism Baden-Württemberg. this investment underscores the region’s commitment to fostering a secure and digitally resilient business environment for its craft businesses.