Justin Cromberge
Protecting systems, networks, devices and data against cyber attacks, in short, cyber security. Even a large-scale event like the NATO summit in The Hague is abused by criminals to steal people's data via email and social media. As an Information Security Officer or ISO, Justin is busy protecting the data and systems of the company where he works every day. Justin has lived and worked in The Hague his entire life. And he wouldn't want it any other way. Justin: 'The Hague simply has everything. Everything is close by. Also by public transport. It is a big city but it doesn't feel like it. And certainly in neighborhoods like Laak there is still a lot of solidarity. The city remains the property of the residents and has not been taken over by tourists. Wonderful.'
Power failure
Justin studied Information Security Management at The Hague University of Applied Sciences. 'We are all quite vulnerable. Look at a power outage a few weeks ago in the centre of The Hague or when the pin systems are down. Shops can close because payments are no longer possible. Almost nobody pays with cash anymore. But also in professions that you don't immediately think of. Such as road builders. They work with their hands but there is a whole system behind it that has determined where and when they have to build a road.'
Digital warfare
But waging wars no longer happens only on the streets. You see it in Ukraine. The fighting has been preceded by digital warfare. Data has been erased, facilities have been shut down and a lot of misinformation has been spread.
'I would like to tell people: stay alert and take the trouble to protect your digital data.'
Justin Cromberge
Digital resilience
Justin and his colleagues ensure that data and systems remain secure, so that they can guarantee that everything continues to function safely for customers and clients. He is also involved in the new DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act). This is a new law that ensures improved digital resilience within the financial sector. For example, against cyber threats and data leaks. Justin: 'Also look at neighboring countries and learn from them. We waste quite a lot of money at the government by trying to figure things out ourselves. Especially on these types of themes where developments are moving quickly, cooperation can ensure faster responses and safer systems.'
Stay alert
'Now people or companies only become alert when something has already happened. That's a shame. You often have lower costs up front than if you have to solve and repair the problem. And certainly for companies, there is sometimes also the damage to their image', Justin adds. 'I would therefore like to tell people: 'Take the trouble to secure your data. Criminals are interested in making money quickly and easily. Stay alert and secure your data. If you have multiple locks on your door, burglars will also walk through to the house with just one simple lock. That's how it works digitally too.'
