The 'Echt Niet Vandaag' Campaign: Strengthening Cyber Resilience Through Collaboration

On 3 June, the 'Echt niet vandaag' (not today) campaign places special emphasis on cybersecurity awareness in the regions of The Hague and Rotterdam. However, the campaign extends far beyond a single day or region. Throughout the year, activities are organised across the Netherlands to help residents and businesses recognise digital threats and take practical steps to protect themselves against cybercrime. As cybercriminals continue to professionalise their methods, initiatives such as Echt Niet Vandaag play an increasingly important role in raising awareness and promoting digital resilience.

Why is collaboration needed

This collective approach is increasingly important. Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated and affect organisations of all sizes. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are particularly attractive targets for cybercriminals, while often lacking the knowledge, capacity, or resources to protect themselves adequately.

To support entrepreneurs in strengthening their digital resilience, Security Delta (HSD) brings together businesses, governments, knowledge institutions, and societal organisations through the Roadmap Cyber Resilience programme. Supported by the Province of South Holland, this initiative focuses on enhancing the cyber resilience of SMEs through knowledge sharing, collaboration, and practical support.

Connecting regional cyber resilience initiatives

A key objective of the Roadmap Cyber Resilience is to connect the many initiatives that already support entrepreneurs in strengthening their cybersecurity. These include the cybersecurity conferences organised by Platform Veilig Ondernemen (PVO) in cooperation with municipalities and cluster organisations, Ferm Zeehavens for the Port of Rotterdam, Cyber Resilience Centre Greenport for the horticultural sector, Cyber Resilience Centre Manufacturing South Holland, cybersecurity events for SMEs organised by the Municipality of The Hague, and Digitalzh, the European Digital Innovation Hub for South Holland.

By bringing these initiatives together and sharing them through the communication channels of participating partners, the Roadmap strengthens the regional ecosystem. Businesses gain easier access to relevant knowledge, support networks and practical tools, while organisations can learn from each other's experiences and build on existing expertise.

Building resilience through collaboration

As Meindert Stolk, Deputy of the Province of South Holland, explains: 

“Cyber threats do not stop at organisational boundaries. That is why collaboration is essential. By sharing knowledge, supporting one another, and working together, we can strengthen the digital resilience of businesses and make the Province of South Holland a safer place.”

By connecting public and private partners, encouraging knowledge exchange and promoting collective action, initiatives such as Echt Niet Vandaag contribute to a stronger and more resilient digital economy. They demonstrate how awareness, cooperation and practical support can help businesses and residents better prepare for the cyber threats of today and tomorrow.