Digitalization vs Cybersecurity
Embed tiered security controls into digital architecture by sensitivity level, satisfying NIS2 and Solvency II operational resilience requirements without blocking legitimate services.
CyberTRIZ analysis · Insurance contradiction DO015 · one of 8,235 worked contradictions published by CyberTRIZ.AI
Regulations
Business Context
Digitalization increases customer accessibility, automation, data exchange, remote operations, and integration with intermediaries and external partners. Each additional digital connection, however, can expand the insurer's attack surface and create new vulnerabilities involving identity, APIs, cloud environments, third parties, endpoints, and sensitive customer information. Restricting connectivity protects systems but can prevent useful digital services.
Insurance TRIZ Resolution
Security can be incorporated into digital architecture according to the sensitivity and consequence of each interaction rather than imposed as uniform friction. Identity controls, segmentation, encryption, continuous monitoring, least-privilege access, and automated threat detection can protect critical assets while permitting legitimate digital activity. Higher-risk transactions receive stronger controls without unnecessarily burdening low-risk interactions.
Applicable TRIZ Principles
Principle 11 – Beforehand Cushioning builds protective controls into digital services before incidents occur.
Principle 1 – Segmentation isolates systems and information according to security exposure.
Principle 15 – Dynamics changes security requirements according to transaction and threat conditions.
Expected Outcome
Greater digital capability
Stronger cybersecurity protection
Reduced unnecessary user friction
Better containment of security incidents
Decision Indicators
Early indicators that this contradiction is limiting technology performance include:
Security requirements routinely prevent legitimate digital improvements.
New integrations create uncontrolled access to sensitive systems.
All digital transactions receive identical security treatment.
Cybersecurity controls are added only after systems are designed.
Minor security incidents propagate across multiple connected environments.
Monitoring these indicators helps insurers expand digital capability through secure architecture rather than choosing between connectivity and protection.