The Cretan Security Operations Center (C‑SOC) is an EU-backed initiative hosted by the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH), designed to bring world-class cybersecurity capabilities to Crete. The project will be implemented in a phased manner to ensure sustainable growth and impact:

• Phase I: Launch the SOC to protect FORTH’s core infrastructure.
• Phase II: Extend services to SMEs located in the regional Science and Technology Park.
• Phase III: Expand the SOC’s reach to support SMEs across the broader Cretan business ecosystem.

Advanced Technical Capabilities

• Employ AI–driven analytics to identify even subtle indicators of cyberattacks in real time.
• Leverage over 60,000 IP addresses within FORTH’s network to construct a “network telescope,” dramatically enhancing visibility across internet traffic.

Strategic Growth Roadmap

C–SOC’s three–stage growth model is designed to scale its capabilities gradually while ensuring operational maturity at each stage:

• Start small and secure: Begin with internally–focused defense.
• Grow responsibly: Integrate SMEs within FORTH’s orbit.
• Scale regionally: Deliver full–spectrum SOC services island–wide.

Why C–SOC Matters

• Elevates local cybersecurity posture: by embedding advanced detection and monitoring across academic and commercial landscapes.
• Fosters economic vitality: Supports SME digitalization and resilience, contributing to Crete’s economic strength.
• Aligns with EU initiatives: Contributes to continental objectives in digital sovereignty, security maturity, and cybersecurity collaboration.
• Built for scalability: The phased approach ensures a stable, robust foundation before regional expansion.