Autumn launch of our Decrypting Cyber Security 2025 series: On 1 September, the SILICON ALPS Cluster, in cooperation with JOANNEUM RESEARCH, hosted a highly topical specialist event on the subject of cyber security in the fields of artificial intelligence, operational technology (OT) and post-quantum cryptography. The event brought together leading experts from research and industry and offered around 40 participants exciting insights into current threat scenarios, technological developments and practical solutions.
When security goes hand in hand with digitalisation
After a welcome address by Michael Leopold from the SILICON ALPS Cluster, the programme kicked off with four high-calibre presentations.
Security and Privacy Challenges of Large Language Models
Patrick Deininger, FH JOANNEUM
Patrick Deininger kicked things off by discussing the security-critical aspects of large language models (LLMs). While these models demonstrate impressive capabilities in text processing, translation and coding, they are also vulnerable to jailbreaking, data manipulation and information leaks. Deininger highlighted the sensitivity of using such models in critical areas such as healthcare and education, and presented initial approaches to risk mitigation as well as ongoing research projects in the field of AI security.
From Lab to Factory Floor: Insights and Highlights from OT Security Testing
Adrian Pinter & Lukas Krisper, SIEMENS AG
Adrian Pinter and Lukas Krisper then provided practical insights into the challenges of security testing in industrial OT environments. Based on numerous projects in industry, they highlighted the fundamental differences between classic IT and OT security requirements. They emphasised that the increasing complexity and interconnectedness of OT systems requires a precise, tailored security strategy that goes beyond conventional IT protection mechanisms.
Crypto Agility for Industrial & IoT: Challenges and Opportunities when Migrating to Post Quantum Cryptography
Mario Lamberger, NXP Semiconductors
Mario Lamberger took a forward-looking view in his presentation, which dealt with the threat posed by quantum computers to traditional encryption methods. He advocated the early implementation of post-quantum cryptography (PQC), particularly in embedded and IoT systems, which are often particularly difficult to convert to new standards. In addition to the technological hurdles, regulatory developments and the importance of crypto agility were also emphasised.
From air gap to awareness – the evolution of OT security measures in critical infrastructures
Heribert Vallant, from our DIGITAL Institute
Zum Abschluss blickte Heribert Vallant auf die Entwicklung der OT-Sicherheitsstrategien in kritischen Infrastrukturen. Während früher physische Trennung („Air Gap“) als Schutzmaßnahme ausreichte, erfordert die zunehmende Vernetzung heute ganzheitliche Sicherheitskonzepte, in denen vor allem das Bewusstsein und die Schulung der Mitarbeitenden eine zentrale Rolle spielen. Vallant zeigte anhand realer Beispiele, wie Sicherheitskultur systematisch aufgebaut und nachhaltig in Organisationen verankert werden kann.
Conclusion and outlook
Following the lecture programme, there was ample opportunity for professional exchange during the networking & get-together. In a relaxed atmosphere, many participants took the opportunity to network with experts, initiate collaborations and discuss current projects.
