From risk to action
The speakers introduced a Step-by-step plan: cybersecurity in cultural organisations to cybersecurity, tailored to cultural organisations:
- Identifying critical assets (“crown jewels”)
- Analysing risks
- Implementing measures and assigning responsibilities
- Continuously monitoring and reviewing systems
Practical recommendations included enabling multi‑factor authentication (MFA), regularly testing backups, developing incident response plans, and establishing clear internal policies, particularly around the use of AI tools to mitigate risks linked to so‑called “shadow AI”.
Learning from real‑world cases
Case studies from institutions such as the Louvre and the Uffizi Gallery illustrated how digital vulnerabilities can intersect with physical security risks. These examples underlined the importance of viewing cybersecurity as part of an organisation’s overall risk management strategy.
Want to explore these topics further?
The webinar is part of NEMO’s ongoing capacity‑building work, supporting museums in navigating digital transformation and emerging risks. As digital infrastructures become more integral to museum work, strengthening cybersecurity practices is key to safeguarding collections, data and public trust. Dive deeper at the NEMO European Museum Conference 2026 – Human after all: Museums in the wake of AI from 11–13 October in Vilnius, Lithuania. The conference will bring together museum professionals and experts to examine how institutions can build trust, strengthen democratic resilience, and respond to technological change and increasing cyber threats.
Through discussions, hands‑on sessions and collaborative exchange, participants will explore how to navigate digital transformation while remaining grounded in human values, public trust and responsibility.
Meet the speakers
Natalie Fransen
Natalie is a cybersecurity advisor and community builder at DEN with a background in the cultural heritage sector. After spending five years working in a museum environment, she developed a strong understanding of the challenges organisations face in managing and protecting digital collections. This experience now supports her work in helping organisations strengthen their digital resilience and navigate emerging security risks. Natalie values clear communication, practical solutions and collaboration and she enjoys bringing people together to share knowledge and learn from one another.
Pascale Stomp
Pascale is an advisor at DEN working on AI, cultural data, data-driven working, and immersive technology. She studied History and went on to complete a master's in Cultural Data & AI, one of the first to graduate from that programme. Her background gives her a unique perspective on the intersection of cultural heritage and emerging technology. She believes AI in the cultural sector is most valuable when it's used thoughtfully, and that's what drives most of what she does at DEN.
