Unbeatable Together: a Strong Team is a Human Firewall

As a graduate computer scientist and passionate computer enthusiast: what brought you to Audi?

Andreas: My path to Audi was surprising, but also the result of focused development. After studying mathematics and computer science, with a specialization in digital forensics, I began my career in the data center of a university, where I dealt intensively with virtualization and IT security. With my strong focus on cybercrime and forensics, I could have also pursued a career with the police, the BND (German Federal Intelligence Service), or other federal authorities. However, I am all the happier that I found a truly forward-looking role at Audi that allows me to live out my passion to the fullest.

Cybersecurity might seem dry to many at first glance, but your enthusiasm is clearly palpable. What motivates you about this topic?

Andreas: The challenge of constantly developing new security measures and keeping an eye on the dynamic digital world makes my job extremely varied and exciting. Audi offers me the ideal combination of a professionally demanding and meaningful field of activity. Here, I can specifically apply my digital forensic knowledge in daily cybersecurity, celebrate successes, and work with a great team for an important cause, among other things.

What does the daily routine of an internal cyber agent at Audi look like?

Andreas: The dry answer would be “Governance,” but as a Local Information Security Officer at Audi in Neckarsulm, I am responsible for all aspects of information security. This role is more relevant than ever, because we are aware there are aggressors who seek unauthorized insight into our know-how and data or want to sabotage our IT systems. My daily work primarily involves making complex IT security issues understandable and tangible. I raise employee awareness of the high priority of this topic and thus contribute to protecting our company from attacks.

What do you mean by attacks?

Andreas: Well, the main factor in security vulnerabilities is still people. Examples of attacks include “classic” phishing, which unfortunately has reached a new level of sophistication through artificial intelligence. But the exploitation of missing software updates, faulty configurations, and weak passwords is also very popular with cybercriminals. These topics require continuous training and attention due to the rapidly advancing cybercrime developments. I train our workforce, just as I constantly optimize our digital protection mechanisms. Metaphorically speaking, we are the bouncers who protect Audi from attacks.

That almost sounds like an agent job.

Andreas: That’s not far from the truth. We are a team of “agents,” because without collective awareness, it would be impossible to be successful. Especially in the field of cybersecurity, it is crucial that everyone pulls together, because every person in the company bears a part of the responsibility for the security of our information. You could say we form a collectively anchored, human firewall that permanently protects us from these dangers: one for all, none alone – all for Audi.