ITH Innovation Summit: Innovation, Technology and Cybersecurity in the Tourism Sector

This year’s edition of the ITH Innovation Summit was an interesting reunion between Tourism professionals and those from the technology sector. Organized by the Instituto Tecnológico Hotelero (“Hotel Technology Institute”), it was held ahead of the mid-October holiday weekend–the first without restrictions since the pandemic began–, and it looks like the sector is beginning to reactivate, with occupation data starting to reach levels similar to those prior to the pandemic.

For two days, discussions were held on innovation and technology focused on the tourism sector, and the role of cybersecurity was given its own panel "Discussions and Concerns. Cybersecurity in the Spotlight" with the participation of Joan Antoni Malonda, from GMV's Tourism Business Development area.

Malonda has reviewed the risks that have to be faced by the companies from the tourist sector regarding the digital environments, because they are one of the main objectives of cybercriminals. The reason for being a target is the big amount of sensitive information they have from their clients. Malonda gave some recommendations for businesses to prepare for possible attacks. “Vulnerability auditing is essential and fundamental, knowing the current situation, analyzing the company’s risks, shaping a global vision to correct those mistakes.”

Another aspect that Malonda highlighted is the importance of having a cybersecurity plan as part of the company’s strategy, as well as a workforce awareness plan. Training is key, as many attacks occur through the actions of the employees themselves.