TISAX Prototype Protection

Why Prototype Protection in TISAX Is So Important

Prototype protection is one of the most demanding TISAX requirements and at the same time the one that sets TISAX apart from all other security standards. No other framework imposes comparable requirements for the physical and digital protection of prototypes. For OEMs, prototypes are worth millions — not only in development but also as a competitive advantage. A leaked design or a photographed test vehicle can jeopardize market entry and cause immense financial damage.

Prototype protection labels always require Assessment Level 3 — an on-site audit is mandatory. The auditor inspects premises, physically checks access controls, and personally verifies security zones. Remote audits are not permitted for prototype protection.

Physical Security

Access Controls

Prototype areas must be protected by multi-layer access controls. The auditor checks: electronic access systems (chip cards, transponders), mantrap systems for particularly sensitive areas, biometric access controls for "very high" classification, and logging of all access events. Every entry must be traceable — who entered and left which area, and when.

Visitor Management

Visitors may only enter prototype areas under strictly controlled conditions. The auditor expects: pre-approved visitor lists, NDA signature before entry, escort by an employee at all times, no-photography policy (including surrender of smartphones or camera covers), and documentation of every visit.

Camera Surveillance and Alarm Systems

Prototype areas must be secured by video surveillance. Cameras must cover entrances, exits, and critical areas. Recordings must be retained for a defined period (typically 30-90 days). Alarm systems must trigger upon unauthorized access or tampering attempts. Restricted zones must be clearly marked and physically delineated.

Digital Security

Encryption

All prototype data must be encrypted at rest and in transit. The auditor checks: encryption standards (AES-256 for storage, TLS 1.2+ for transmission), key management, encryption of backup media, and encryption of mobile devices (laptops, USB drives) that contain prototype data.

DRM and Watermarks

For particularly sensitive prototype data (CAD drawings, design studies, photographs), Digital Rights Management (DRM) and digital watermarks are used. DRM prevents unauthorized copying, printing, or forwarding of documents. Digital watermarks make the origin of a leaked document traceable. Not mandatory for all labels, but expected for "Prototype Protection very high".

Access Controls and Data Classification

Prototype data is subject to the need-to-know principle: Only employees who need access for their work may access prototype data. The auditor checks: authorization concepts, access reviews, Privileged Access Management, and consistent data classification (confidential, strictly confidential, prototype).

Test Vehicles

The "Test Vehicles" label imposes specific requirements for handling test and pre-series vehicles:

• Camouflage wrapping: Test vehicles must be disguised so that design details are not recognizable. The camouflage wrapping must be professionally applied and seamless.
• GPS tracking: Test vehicles must be locatable at all times. GPS trackers must be installed in a tamper-proof manner.
• No-photography zones: In all areas where test vehicles are parked or moved, strict no-photography policies apply. Smartphones must be surrendered or locked away.
• Secured parking: Test vehicles may only be parked in secured, fenced, and monitored parking areas. Access only for authorized personnel.

Prototype Events

When prototypes are shown or transported at trade shows, tests, or presentations, special protective measures apply:

• Access controls: Event-specific access lists, participant verification, secured areas for prototype presentations
• NDA management: All event participants must sign confidentiality agreements before seeing prototypes
• Transport security: Enclosed transport vehicles, GPS tracking during transport, accompanying personnel
• No-photography enforcement: Smartphone surrender or camera covers, security personnel for enforcement

NDA Management

Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) are a central instrument in prototype protection. The auditor checks:

• Existence of NDA templates for various scenarios (employees, suppliers, visitors, event participants)
• Complete documentation of all signed NDAs (Who signed what, and when?)
• Contract control: Are NDA conditions reviewed regularly?
• Follow-up: What happens in case of NDA violations? Is there a defined escalation process?
• Validity periods: Are expired NDAs renewed?

Prototype protection requires close collaboration between IT, facility management, procurement, and the specialist departments. It is not purely an IT topic. Also learn about the appropriate TISAX labels and audit preparation to be optimally prepared for the AL3 assessment.