Industry Report
Digital bodyguard in Hotel Asset Management
In the rapidly evolving landscape of digitalization, the hospitality industry faces significant challenges in safeguarding valuable data and maintaining robust cyber security.
The concept of a 'Digital Bodyguard' is introduced to address these challenges, emphasizing the crucial role of cyber security as part of hotel asset management.
The Shift in Cyber Threats
With the advent of digitalization, cybercriminals have shifted their focus from targeted industrial espionage to hacking-for-profit, impacting any vulnerable entity. Unlike physical security threats, such as fires which are visible and understood, cyber security threats remain hidden and require specialized expertise to detect and mitigate. Cyber incidents can lead to data destruction, revenue loss, regulatory fines, and reputational damage, making robust cyber security measures imperative for the hospitality industry.
Layered Cyber Security Approach
Cyber security in hotels can be visualized as a multi-layered system akin to an onion, with each layer representing different aspects of protection.
These layers include:
The Darknet: A hidden part of the internet where sensitive data can be sold or used for blackmail. Continuous monitoring and countermeasures are essential to protect against information leaks.
The Internet: The public-facing aspect of a hotel’s digital presence, vulnerable to attacks like social engineering and brand impersonation. Effective monitoring and control can mitigate these risks.
The Internet-Uplink: The connection point between the hotel and the internet, critical for both business operations and guest services. Poorly implemented interfaces can lead to supply chain attacks, compromising multiple businesses through a single vulnerability.
Internal IT-Infrastructure: Once inside, attackers can exploit vulnerabilities to access sensitive data, deploy ransomware, and cause significant operational disruptions.
Strategic Partnerships for Enhanced Security
Horwath HTL has partnered with ENYO Cyber Intelligence to provide comprehensive cyber security services, positioning themselves as “digital bodyguards.” These services include Darknet investigation, digital risk protection, penetration testing, and high-level consulting in areas such as GDPR compliance and cyber crisis management.
This partnership aims to enhance business resilience against cyber-attacks and reduce risks associated with regulatory fines and reputational damage.
Incorporating cyber security as an integral part of hotel asset management is essential for protecting valuable data, maintaining guest trust, and ensuring business continuity. By adopting a layered security approach and leveraging strategic partnerships, the hospitality industry can better navigate the complexities of digital threats and secure their assets against potential cyber-attacks.
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