Thomas Hainzel

As the Head of Partner Management for Nokia Mobile Networks Europe, Thomas Hainzel leads the development of sales and go-to-market partnerships with Value-Added Resellers, Global System Integrators, and Distributors for Nokia's Radio and Microwave solutions.

Thomas is experienced at building strategic alliances and partner ecosystems with hyperscalers, webscalers, and industrial solution partners across enterprise industries such as 

transportation, energy, automotive & manufacturing, and the public sector.

It’s essential when building relationships to keep them protected and secure. Thomas Hainzel addresses this through his expert knowledge and experience of the evolving cybersecurity threat landscape. Experienced across industries, he recognises manufacturing as the sector with some of the most complex challenges. 

A decade of digital transformation has created a complex attack surface for the industry, with Industry 4.0 creating transformative opportunities and unique vulnerabilities. 

Expanding on Nokia’s approach, he highlights how manufacturers can proactively identify and mitigate cyber threats whilst exploring how much the cybersecurity landscape has changed over the years.

What is Nokia’s approach to cybersecurity?

The average cost of a full data breach is upwards of $4.2M, with the number constantly on the increase.  Every second counts hence why security can't be an afterthought, especially for manufacturing organisations - the lifeblood of the world economy.

Nokia understands the critical role of security in today’s connected manufacturing landscape. Our solutions prioritise robust security measures throughout the entire manufacturing process. 

This includes leveraging secure private wireless networks to isolate critical industrial systems, building security into the design of our end-to-end solutions, and harnessing the inherent reliability of 5G for mission-critical applications.

What has your career taught you about cybersecurity?

Throughout my career, I've witnessed the dramatic evolution and growing importance of cybersecurity. 

In the 1990s and 2000s, cybersecurity was primarily the domain of large corporations, focusing on a few mission-critical systems and classical IT infrastructures. 

However, as the years progressed, and technology has advanced, cybersecurity has become an everyday concern across diverse industries—from industrial production and mission-critical public safety communication to personal banking and shopping applications. 

The scope of cybersecurity has expanded significantly, evolving from simple firewalls and network security to encompass integrated OT/industrial plant security, social engineering, phishing, automated threat detection, and AI-driven pattern recognition. 

This journey has taught me that cybersecurity isn’t just about having the latest technologies; it's about adopting an end-to-end strategy, an integrated process, and an organisational approach to safeguard today's most valuable asset—data.

Cybersecurity has also become an ecosystem play. While companies like Nokia can develop cutting-edge security technologies and concepts, it takes a collaborative effort involving a whole ecosystem of devices, infrastructure, applications, and processes to truly secure our digital world. 

It's a collective endeavour to ensure that data remains secure and consistent in an ever-evolving threat landscape.

Can you describe the current state of manufacturing's cybersecurity landscape?

The manufacturing industry is currently experiencing a cybersecurity landscape in flux. The rise of Industry 4.0 has undoubtedly revolutionised production processes, but it’s also introduced new security concerns.

On one hand, we have these incredibly sophisticated, interconnected systems driving efficiency and automation. On the other hand, legacy equipment, often lacking robust security features, still plays a vital role in many factories. 

This creates a complex situation where manufacturers must navigate a heterogeneous environment with a growing number of potential entry points for attackers. The sheer number of connected devices – sensors, machines, and so on – further amplifies the challenge. 

While Industry 4.0 offers immense potential, robust cybersecurity strategies are essential for manufacturers to ensure the continued success of their operations.

How has the rise of Industry 4.0 created new cybersecurity risks and threats for manufacturers?

The rise of Industry 4.0 has been a boon for manufacturing efficiency, but it’s also introduced new cybersecurity challenges.

Traditionally isolated machines are now interconnected, creating a vast, digital factory floor. This expanded attack surface makes it easier for hackers to exploit vulnerabilities in any connected device.

Furthermore, the lines between physical and digital security are blurring. A cyberattack on a seemingly innocuous sensor could now disrupt an entire production line. Think of it like a high-security building with a weak spot in a critical access point. This single vulnerability could compromise the entire facility. The challenge is compounded by the prevalence of legacy equipment, often lacking robust security features.

Industry 4.0 undoubtedly brings exciting advancements, but manufacturers must be vigilant in addressing these evolving cybersecurity threats.

By understanding these vulnerabilities, they can take proactive steps to secure their interconnected systems and safeguard their operations in the new digital age.

Nokia: An early tech innovator 

• In the late 1800’s, Mining engineer Fredrik Idestam set up a wood pulp mill in southwest Finland. When he opened a second mill near the Nokianvirta river, he was inspired to name his company ‘Nokia’.
• In 1967 Nokia Ab merged with Finnish Cable Works and Finnish Rubber, to form Nokia. In the late seventies Nokia created Mobira Oy, a radio telephone company as a joint venture with leading Finnish TV maker Salora.
• 1981 marked the launch of the Nordic Mobile Telephone service, the world’s first international cellular network, and the first to allow international roaming. A year later Nokia introduced the first car phone – the Mobira Senator – to the network
• In 1984 Nokia launched an upgrade- the Mobira Talkman portable car phone.
• Three years later in 1987 Nokia introduced the Mobira Cityman, the first handheld mobile phone. Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev is famously pictured using one in Helsinki to call his communications minister in Moscow.
• In 1992, Nokia launched the Nokia 1011, the first digital handheld GSM phone. The company then decided to focus on mobile phones and telecommunications, selling off its rubber, cable and consumer electronics divisions.
• In 1994, Nokia launched the 2100 series, the first phones to feature the Nokia Tune ringtone. Twenty million of these phones were sold worldwide, surpassing Nokia’s target of 400,000.
• Leading up to 2001 Nokia released the first phones capable of web-based functions like email and providing ringtones. In 2001 Nokia launched the first phone with a built-in camera, the Nokia 7650.
• In 2024 Nokia continues to be a multinational telecommunications leader, providing advanced smartphones and IT solutions. The modern smartphones we know today, grew from a historic foundation of innovation created by Nokia.

What robust cybersecurity strategies can manufacturers adopt to safeguard operations?

The interconnected nature of Industry 4.0 necessitates a layered cybersecurity strategy. Zero-trust architecture treats everything with suspicion, requiring constant authentication for access. 

This creates secure zones within the network, isolating critical automation systems from less critical areas like office email. This segmentation limits the damage if a single point is compromised.

For high-performance applications, secure private wireless networks like cellular-grade 4G/5G campus networks offer a reliable solution with built-in security protocol, trusted by Communication Service Providers (CSPs) globally. 

Additionally, AI and Machine Learning can analyse user and machine behaviour to identify potential cyberattacks before disruptions occur.

Finally, legacy systems should not be overlooked. While a complete overhaul might not be feasible, security upgrades and vulnerability assessments can significantly mitigate the inherent risks associated with older equipment. 

Digital transformation in manufacturing necessitates a multi-layered approach to secure legacy systems. Dedicated private networks isolate them from broader threats, while on-premises edge computing minimises data exposure. 

Platforms that seamlessly integrate with existing infrastructure ease the transition. These actions, combined with continuous monitoring and adaptation, empower manufacturers to navigate digital transformation while safeguarding their legacy systems.

Cyberthreats continually evolve and advance in response to emerging technologies. With this in mind, how can manufacturers future-proof security?

The ever-changing cyber threat landscape demands a proactive security shift in manufacturing. Manufacturers need a holistic security strategy woven throughout their digital transformation journey, from planning to ongoing maintenance.

Continuous learning is crucial. Staying informed about evolving threats and updating protocols and employee training keeps them ahead of the curve.

Security solutions should be flexible and adaptable, accommodating unforeseen threats and future technologies. Scalable solutions with easy integration and ongoing updates are key. 

Finally, fostering a culture of security awareness through employee education and encouraging reports of suspicious activity creates a strong line of defence. 

Remember, “future-proofing” is continuous - constant vigilance and adaptation are essential for long-term security success.

Is there any advice you’d like to give to manufacturers about security?

Manufacturers can navigate the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape by adopting a continuous security approach. This includes regular vulnerability assessments, ongoing security education for employees, and leveraging new technologies like automation and AI.

Partnering with cybersecurity specialists ensures a comprehensive security strategy, facilitating a secure digital transformation journey.

To read the full story in the magazine click HERE 

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