Cispa: Helmholtz-Zentrum wegen möglicher weiterer Verstöße im Fokus

The Helmholtz-Zentrum für Informationssicherheit (Cispa) in Saarbrücken is under scrutiny due to potential further violations. The federal and Saarland governments have expanded the special review of Cispa, expanding the focus beyond the question of whether sensitive knowledge flowed to China due to close ties with China. The federal research ministry stated that any additional compliance and governance violations will be examined.

The review, conducted by independent auditor KPMG, covers the institute's handling of research security, which protects sensitive research from unwanted knowledge leaks. The cost of the review is yet to be determined. The ministerial decision was prompted by reports highlighting Cispa's close connections with Chinese universities.

The ministry granted a temporary release to Cispa's scientific director, Michael Backes, to ensure an independent review and protect the institute during the special review. The review will also depend on whether Cispa receives an additional million euros in funding from the research ministry. The federal government has not provided a timeline for the conclusion of the special review.

The review includes an assessment of Cispa's research security system, export control laws, foreign trade laws, and dual-use regulations. Dual-use refers to technologies that can be used for civil and military purposes. The review also covers the implementation of export control laws, foreign trade laws, and dual-use regulations.