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Visual AOK Bundesverband

Optimization of IT security at AOK

Technical audits to identify vulnerabilities and improve data security

Client

The AOK Federal Association is a driving force and service provider for its shareholders—the eleven AOKs. The core task of the AOK Federal Association is to represent the interests of the AOK community vis-à-vis federal and European politics, the GKV-Spitzenverband (National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds), and the political institutions of the AOK's contractual partners. The full-time board of the AOK Federal Association and the honorary self-governing body work together to promote conditions that improve the care of over 27 million AOK policyholders.

Challenge

To ensure information security, any technical weaknesses, potential for process optimization, and design flaws in the client's IT landscape had to be analyzed and identified. In addition, the aim was to further develop the concepts and standards used in line with the state of the art. Through expert analysis of IT security incidents, potential damage was to be identified at an early stage, prevented, and specifically contained.

Objective

The objective was to examine four key areas as part of technical testing. This included reviewing configurations, scanning IT components and network areas for vulnerabilities, and performing penetration tests. Individual tests were also carried out to analyze specific security-related aspects in a targeted manner.

Solution and benefits

The targeted use of penetration tests identifies security gaps in IT systems, networks, and applications at an early stage, before potential attackers can exploit them. This leads to increased data security, as potential attack vectors are uncovered and sensitive customer data is better protected. This not only increases the level of security, but also customer confidence in the company.

In addition, the tests support compliance with legal and industry-specific regulations, such as the GDPR or ISO 27001, and thus contribute to compliance security. Another significant advantage is the minimization of downtime and costs: Early detection and resolution of security issues helps avoid costly security incidents and ensures business continuity.

Client: AOK Federal Association

Project Name: Consulting/Support – Technical Assessments

Challenge

To ensure information security, msg will systematically identify potential technical vulnerabilities as well as possible process improvements and design weaknesses within the client’s IT landscape. Furthermore, existing concepts and standards will be enhanced in line with state-of-the-art practices. Expert analysis of IT security incidents will help prevent damage and ensure timely mitigation.

Project

The scope of Technical Assessments is divided into four areas:

  • Review of configurations
  • Vulnerability scanning of IT components and network segments
  • Execution of penetration tests
  • Performance of customized assessments

Benefits for the Client

  • Identification of security gaps: Penetration tests detect vulnerabilities in IT systems, networks, or applications before attackers can exploit them.
  • Enhanced data security: By uncovering potential attack vectors, sensitive customer data is better protected, strengthening client trust in the organization.
  • Compliance with regulatory requirements: Penetration tests support adherence to legal and industry-specific regulations (e.g., GDPR, ISO 27001).
  • Reduced downtime and costs: Early detection and remediation of security issues help avoid costly security incidents.

Your contact

Artelt, Susanne

Susanne Artelt

Principal Business Consultant

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