Nixu ensures Outokumpu’s preparedness for cyber threats: The detection capability supports business continuity

Outokumpu, a global leader in stainless steel manufacturing, has found multiple benefits in outsourcing their IT security monitoring to Nixu Cyber Defense Center. Outokumpu can focus on its core work as Nixu’s cybersecurity experts stay alert around the clock.

Outokumpu is the industry forerunner in sustainability with the highest percentage of recycled content, over 90%. Digitalization plays a crucial role in Outokumpu’s operations in over 30 countries with approximately 10,000 employees.  

IT dependency is critical for a global industrial company and affects every employee on each level and location. As Outokumpu takes the steps towards a fully digitalized operations, the IT calls for capabilities in different sectors. The current threat landscape requires cybersecurity expertise, active mitigation and proactive protection.

“Building an internal security operations center is not feasible for many companies,” says Tero Lampiluoto, Chief Information Security Officer at Outokumpu. “Monitoring security 24/7 takes a lot. That’s why I think it’s only smart to let experts operate it and for example gain some synergies of scale.”

Clear visibility 24/7

Outokumpu has been a Nixu partner for several years, and the co-operation continues. The service includes 24/7 monitoring in Nixu Cyber Defense Center (CDC), regular briefing on security events and incidents, and staying in close contact with third-party vendors and operators.

Nixu’s CDC services detect and respond to anomalities in Outokumpu’s network. Cybersecurity professionals ensure Outokumpu’s network runs smoothly and without interruption day and night. If there are any exceptions to the traffic, they are investigated and reported immediately.

Keeping up with the latest cybersecurity trends and seeing the big picture helps Outokumpu maintain a good security posture. “Nixu can also provide us experience and knowledge they have encountered with other clients,” Lampiluoto says. The data from Nixu CDC increases the company's cybersecurity awareness and supports the development of cybersecurity guidelines. “It is absolutely necessary to track what is happening in our network all the time.”

Continuity benefits all

Besides the network-visibility, Lampiluoto sees several benefits of Nixu CDC for Outokumpu. “Best practices, experience, synergy, and market knowledge. The detection capability supports business continuity. And that brings you confidence and trust.”

The partnership started well from day one, which doesn’t mean that no learning has happened. Over the years, the co-operation has found the most efficient and suitable working models, including third parties.

“Continuity is a true benefit. Well-known and proven routines make it easy to act when something occurs,” says Eetu Simpanen, Business Manager at Nixu CDC.

“We gain knowledge and experience. That’s why constancy is fundamental,” says Lampiluoto.