Kristof Hertig is the Head of Digital Infrastructure and Cybersecurity at digitalswitzerland. In this role, he leads the organization’s efforts in Trustworthy Digital Infrastructure, E-ID, Data Economy, and Cybersecurity.
Why is building trust in digital systems more important now than ever?
Trustworthy digital infrastructure is the backbone of the emerging Intelligence Age of our society. With AI playing an increasingly significant role in many digital services in our daily lives, it is crucial that the systems we rely on are secure, resilient, and trustworthy. We also observe that cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated due to AI. Public trust can erode quickly if critical digital systems fail or are compromised. Therefore, establishing a robust and secure digital infrastructure is not only a technical necessity but also a societal imperative.
How do Switzerland’s efforts to introduce a national E-ID by 2026 fit into a vision of trustworthy digital infrastructure?
The Swiss national E-ID is set to provide a foundational layer for digital interactions. It’s designed to offer citizens a secure and reliable way of digital identification, applicable even in non-digital interactions. In the next phase, the E-ID will also enable organizations to securely identify business and trade partners and help distinguish AI agents from humans in digital interactions.
Is the new E-ID not a massive cybersecurity risk?
By adopting the principle of Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI), the E-ID empowers individuals to control their digital identities and credentials locally on their devices. This approach enhances security and privacy because personal data is not stored in centralized databases, which are attractive targets for cyberattacks. Instead, users manage their data autonomously, which reduces the risk of large-scale data breaches, though it places greater responsibility on the individual.
What role does AI play in enhancing or challenging the trustworthiness of digital infrastructure?
AI has a dual role. It enhances cybersecurity by enabling advanced threat detection, automating incident responses, and analyzing vast amounts of data. However, AI systems can also be targeted or misused as powerful agents in cyberattacks. It is crucial to remember that data is the lifeblood of AI, and high-quality datasets are essential for training trustworthy and transparent AI systems. Privacy concerns, proprietary restrictions, and regulatory requirements make access to high-quality data increasingly challenging. Trustworthy data spaces can address this issue by enabling data sharing without forfeiting ownership or storing data centrally. Organizations and individuals can contribute data to customize and train AI systems while retaining control over who can access it and how it’s used. Better accountability, auditability, and compliance with standards can enable AI to serve as a trusted building block within digital infrastructure.
How do these developments in digital infrastructure and identity relate to current questions around digital sovereignty?
A clear distinction is essential. The Swiss E-ID promotes citizens’ self-determination, which positively impacts Switzerland’s digital sovereignty. However, digital sovereignty refers to the ability of nation-states to act independently. Switzerland must strike a balance in managing reliance on foreign technology. Decisions should be made on a case-by-case basis to determine in which areas, and to what extent, Switzerland should develop its own infrastructure versus leveraging global solutions with clear safeguards in place.
How do you see the future of trustworthy digital infrastructure evolving, particularly in Switzerland?
Trust is the cornerstone of our digital future. As we adopt new technologies like the E-ID and AI, it’s essential that we prioritize security and empower individuals. International collaboration is also key to establishing global standards that ensure interoperability while respecting a country’s digital sovereignty and cybersecurity. I believe we will see an increasing focus on how to secure and share data effectively, with precise control over access by humans, organizations, or AI agents. Ultimately, by building a trustworthy digital infrastructure, we not only protect ourselves against cyber threats but also foster innovation and growth in the digital economy. I encourage organizations and individuals alike to stay informed and engage proactively with these developments, as they will shape our interactions and business practices in the decades to come.
