Smart storage needs smart security: placeB puts its IoT solution to the test

Tobias, can you briefly introduce placeB?

placeB was founded in 2015, and we opened our first location in Zurich in 2016. Today, we operate more than 55 sites across Switzerland and add about ten new ones every year. We’re a small, efficient team of 13. Our goal is to provide customers with secure, convenient self-storage with as little effort as possible.

Why is cybersecurity so important for you?

IT is the heart of our business: access systems, contract management, billing – everything is digital. Without functioning IT, we couldn’t operate. For us, cybersecurity isn’t “nice to have,” it’s existential.

Customers trust that their belongings are safe. Today, that includes both digital and physical security. Once you’re targeted by an attack, things can escalate quickly. Absolute security doesn’t exist, but we want to make the barrier for attackers as high as possible.

How have you approached cybersecurity in practice?

From the beginning, we’ve relied on the expertise of ethical hackers – first through a bug bounty program and now with a Vulnerability Disclosure Program (VDP). This way, we combine targeted security testing with ongoing feedback from the community. It’s helped us confirm that our systems are stable, close smaller gaps quickly, and ensure that we always have an external second set of eyes on our environment.

What value has this brought to placeB?

Trust is the key. Our employees know the systems are tested, which gives them confidence and strengthens their arguments in sales. For management, it’s reassuring to have independent confirmation of our security measures. And externally, it shows professionalism: with investors or in due diligence processes, we can demonstrate that we manage security in a structured way.

How has your experience been working with GObugfree?

Very positive. We’ve known each other for a long time, and communication has always been straightforward and personal.

The platform is modern and easy to use. Even without an IT background, it’s intuitive to navigate. And if questions come up, support is quick – the service level is really high.

Would you recommend GObugfree?

Absolutely. Especially for SMEs, it’s a simple and efficient way to check your security and uncover vulnerabilities. You don’t need a big project – and you still get a clear picture of where you stand.

What’s next for placeB?

With our next major system release, we’ll be launching another bug bounty program. It’s the logical next step for us: continuously benefiting from the community’s expertise and steadily increasing the security of our platform.