European Commission launches cyber-theft prevention toolkit to protect SMEs’ trade secrets in high-risk sectors

Protecting trade secrets has become essential for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across all industries. With the global economy shifting toward increased digitalisation and industry 4.0 technologies, cyber-attacks and trade secret thefts have become more frequent and damaging.

Cybercriminals exploit the substantial investments made by innovative companies, aiming to benefit from stolen intellectual assets. These attacks range from attempts to sabotage operations to stealing critical trade secrets and know-how—information often qualifying for intellectual property protection. Cyber-theft is estimated to threaten approximately €60 billion in EU economic growth and put 289 000 jobs at risk.

In response, the European Commission has developed a comprehensive cyber-theft prevention toolkit tailored for SMEs. This toolkit is a key resource within the EU’s broader initiative to combat counterfeiting and safeguard innovation. It focuses on empowering SMEs, particularly in high-risk sectors such as energy, biotechnology, transport, defence, and semiconductors, to protect their valuable trade secrets.

The toolkit, designed for IT professionals, managers, and employees who handle trade secrets, strengthens organisational defenses against cyber threats through 2 main pillars.

1. Awareness-Raising: This includes a range of practical resources—business guides, case studies, FAQs, a leaflet detailing cybercriminal motivations, and engaging visual materials featuring ‘cyber-heroes’ to enhance awareness and engagement.
2. Training: The toolkit offers 2 specialised courses. The first is a 4-module, self-paced course for employees with access to trade secrets, while the second is an interactive session designed specifically for managers. Both courses equip participants with essential skills to recognise and mitigate cyber threats effectively.

The cyber-theft prevention toolkit represents a proactive step in helping SMEs secure their intellectual assets and maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly digital economy. It is one of the deliverables of the Commission Recommendation to enhance IP enforcement and combat counterfeiting of March 2024.

More information

Preventing cyber theft of trade secrets in SMEs: A comprehensive toolkit