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BBSec and KEL Partnership for Enhanced Security in APAC

Introduction

In an age where cyber threats are on the rise, the partnership between Broadband Security (BBSec) and Kanematsu Electronics (KEL) marks a significant step towards enhancing security measures in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, particularly in the automotive sector. Together, they are poised to offer support for acquiring and managing TISAX® (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) certification to two automotive component manufacturers and their supply chain in Thailand.

Background

Manufacturing and distribution sectors globally are increasingly targeted by cyber attacks, especially those focusing on supply chain vulnerabilities. In Japan, the integration of Operational Technology (OT) with Information Technology (IT) is becoming more prevalent, driving the demand for enhanced security solutions in manufacturing environments.

TISAX® serves as a remarkable framework that allows sharing and referencing of information security audit results under a common set of rules within the automotive industry. Built on the ISO/IEC 27001 standard, TISAX® also incorporates unique aspects such as information protection, data privacy, and prototype protection. Established in 2017, this certification is rapidly gaining traction across Europe.

It is worth noting that TISAX® is not strictly limited to the manufacturing sector. Rather, it extends to suppliers, service providers, and trading companies within the automotive supply chain, ensuring a common level of protection across various business entities involved.

The Value of Third-Party Evaluation and Certification Preparation

As the automotive industry evolves, particularly within the European OEM environment, the requirement for TISAX® compliance has increasingly become a practical prerequisite for both new and ongoing business transactions. The scope of TISAX® compliance now covers non-manufacturing entities, allowing those handling sensitive information—such as design blueprints, prototype data, quality information, procurement data, logistics data, and IT operational data—to easily certify their security levels to partners using the TISAX label.

This collaboration between BBSec and KEL is vital as it enables them to concurrently assist manufacturing facilities and associated trading companies in Thailand. Their bilingual ability in Japanese, English, and Thai equips them to navigate local laws and business customs, ensuring a smooth implementation process from initial investigation to operational execution and post-audit support.

Key Use Cases in Sales Environments

Here are some notable ways the TISAX label can be beneficial:
1. Overseas trading companies handling European OEM prototypes and quality data can prepare their TISAX labels to meet order placement prerequisites.
2. Service providers engaged in manufacturing outsourcing, logistics, and IT operations can substantiate their handling of confidential data, which may enhance their bidding or vendor registration.
3. Strengthening control over overseas locations can effectively follow head office regulations while implementing TISAX criteria in localized operations.

Future Development

BBSec is committed to creating a safer and more convenient network society. As part of its Vision 2030, one of the societal challenges it aims to address is securing supply chains against attacks. Strengthening consulting functions is a key aspect of this commitment. The current initiative is directly linked to expanding BBSec's existing business and enhancing profitability.

The demand for continual operation and corrective measures for TISAX support at overseas locations is anticipated. The collaboration with KEL is a strategic move to improve the efficiency of international ventures and security implementations.

In November 2023, BBSec and KEL formalized their capital and business alliance to develop IT solutions collaboratively. As a global IT partner, they aim to leverage their networks across Europe, North America, and Asia to bolster security and operational support for overseas initiatives.

About Kanematsu Electronics (KEL)

KEL specializes in providing high-value solution business services in IT infrastructure, including servers, storage, networks, and document management. They serve a range of customers from large corporations to medium enterprises, offering total solutions spanning system design, implementation, and ongoing support.

About BBSec

Founded in 2000, BBSec stands as a total security service provider, delivering a full range of services from visibility and diagnosis to 24/7 incident response and operational management. With high technical abilities and extensive experience, BBSec aims to address key societal challenges, namely attacks on supply chains, critical infrastructure, and security in the AI era, all to fulfill its vision of creating a safer network society.