#Innovation #Austria #AV-Comparatives #Alpbach #Euregio

AV-Comparatives Nominated for the Euregio Innovation Award at the 2025 European Forum Alpbach

AV-Comparatives, an independent testing lab well-known for its security evaluations, has recently received a prestigious nomination for the Euregio Innovation Award at the upcoming European Forum Alpbach (EFA) 2025. This significant recognition celebrates their groundbreaking research in the field of Internet of Things (IoT) security and their innovative development of an automated testing system for smart home devices.

The Importance of IoT Security

Smart home devices such as connected cameras, voice assistants, and smart lighting systems have become ubiquitous in modern households. While these innovations enhance convenience, they also pose serious security risks if not properly secured. Vulnerable devices can be exploited by cybercriminals, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or even control over the home systems.

The urgency of addressing these security concerns has never been more apparent. Vulnerable IoT devices are often compromised and integrated into large-scale botnet attacks, thereby endangering individual users and critical infrastructure alike. AV-Comparatives aims to tackle these challenges head-on through their pioneering research efforts.

The Development of an Innovative Testing Platform

In collaboration with MCI | The Entrepreneurial School®, AV-Comparatives has developed a robust and automated testing system designed for certifying IoT devices. This novel platform rigorously evaluates the effectiveness of smart devices in protecting user data and resisting cyber attacks. The research team encountered significant vulnerabilities in devices from two major smart home suppliers, highlighting the immediate need for stricter security standards and independent certification processes.

Jan Brilke, Chief Operating Officer of AV-Comparatives, expressed, "Our nomination for the Euregio Innovation Award serves as a validation of our mission to ensure connected technologies are tested against the highest standards. With smart home devices increasingly integrated into daily life, the risks of inadequate security are no longer theoretical. Our new IoT testing system contributes to consumer protection while offering manufacturers a clear pathway to deliver safer and more reliable products."

Moreover, Pascal Schöttle from MCI added, "The collaboration between MCI and AV-Comparatives showcases how applied research and industry expertise can converge to address the most pressing social challenges. With billions of IoT devices in homes and businesses worldwide, rigorous testing and certification are essential to safeguard users and our infrastructure."

Call to Action for IoT Manufacturers

AV-Comparatives encourages IoT manufacturers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to engage with their upcoming research and certification framework. By working in unison, the industry can assure that advancements in smart home technology coincide with consumer safety and data protection. Manufacturers who are interested can reach out to AV-Comparatives for a free initial assessment of their products' security capabilities.

For further inquiries about the certification program, please contact AV-Comparatives at [email protected].

About AV-Comparatives

AV-Comparatives is an internationally recognized independent testing laboratory that conducts systematic evaluations to verify the effectiveness of security software, including antivirus solutions for PCs and Macs. Founded in Innsbruck, Austria, it is a leading authority in IT security assessment.

About MCI | The Entrepreneurial School®

MCI | The Entrepreneurial School® innovatively amalgamates academia, business, and consultancy to link theory with practice, as well as science with industry. Being one of Austria's foremost universities of applied sciences, MCI has an impressive track record in promoting innovation and entrepreneurial initiatives.