it-sa 2026 trade fair opens in Nuremberg with record exhibitors

The it-sa trade fair, Europe’s largest event for IT security, has commenced in Nuremberg, Germany. The 2026 edition has reached a new record with more than 1,000 exhibitors occupying five halls, an increase from 993 the previous year. Approximately 30 percent of participating companies are traveling from abroad.

Industry leaders and officials highlighted the escalating threat landscape, specifically noting how artificial intelligence is being used to exponentially increase phishing attacks. Discussions at the event emphasize cybersecurity as a fundamental challenge and a critical component of digital public services. Key themes include AI agents, autonomous AI systems, digital sovereignty, OT security, cyber resilience, and Zero Trust.

The event features over 400 presentations across six specialist forums. Notable speakers include Professor Dr. Marco Gercke from the Cybercrime Research Institute, who is scheduled to present a keynote on simulating security incidents.