In order to prepare members for future challenges, the Federal Association of the Security Economy (BDSW) launched their own working group cyber security on April 9, 2025. At the constituent meeting in Berlin, Dirk H. Bürhaus, managing director of the Kötter Security Group, unanimously elected chairman.
More protection – for members and customers
The focus of the new working group is initially the strengthening of the self -protection of the member companies against attacks from the network. “Safety service providers in particular are in particular responsibility,” emphasized Bürhaus in his inaugural speech. “Our customers not only rely on physical protective measures – they also expect digital security.”
The aim of the committee is to create an extended awareness of the danger in the industry and to provide concrete assistance through handouts, qualification offers and cooperation. It is particularly important to train employees in dealing with sensitive data and digital systems – because with the growing use of networked technologies, the requirements for data protection and information security are also increasing.
Cyber security becomes part of the portfolio
In the long term, the working group also wants to establish the topic of cyber security as a service component. Because security companies are increasingly taking over the protection of critical infrastructures – and this no longer ends at the work gate. “Integrated security solutions” from technology, personnel and IT protection are considered the future model of the industry. The BDSW therefore wants to support its members in targeting their range of services.
Around 290,000 employees are currently working in a private security industry, and the industry turnover was an estimated 14.13 billion euros in 2024. Whether work protection, reception service or property protection – many of the companies organized in the association are now working at security -critical interfaces. It is all the more important to strengthen the digital line of defense, said Bürhaus: “Only together can we meet the increasing challenges – and effectively prepare ourselves against attacks from the net.”