Tech & Tacheles: AI decides the fight against financial crime
News, 03/12/2025
Financial crime is becoming more complex and evolving faster than many banks can respond. In the new episode of Tech & Tacheles, Simona Stoytchkova (advisor to the AI network AIAYN) and Carsten Fritz (product owner for managed application services at Sopra Financial Technology) discuss why traditional defense mechanisms are no longer sufficient. How can financial institutions maintain the upper hand in the age of AI agents?
Nuremberg, December 3, 2025 – Zero-day attacks, deepfakes, and AI-supported fraud strategies are dramatically changing the security landscape for financial institutions. Today's cybercriminals operate in networks and often move faster than banks can adapt their IT systems. In episode 13 of Tech & Tacheles, Simona Stoytchkova and Carsten Fritz discuss the race between attackers and defenders. Simona Stoytchkova puts it bluntly: “We are at the beginning of a radical change. Those who don't innovate now will fall behind.” Carsten Fritz adds: “We have a strong foundation, but only if we have the courage to develop it further.”
Why traditional methods no longer work
Traditional security approaches, such as rule-based firewalls, are reaching their limits when it comes to new types of threats. Stoytchkova emphasizes: “The game has long since changed with attacks that no one has seen before. This calls for new ways of thinking and new technologies.” Carsten Fritz adds: “We mustn't forget the tried-and-tested fundamentals. But we need to rethink them and strengthen them with AI.” Both agree that only with artificial intelligence can defense be proactive.
What banks should do now
The discussion also focuses on people, dealing with new technologies, and mistakes. For both guests, these are key prerequisites for real progress. “We need to create spaces where employees are allowed to try out new technologies,” says Simona Stoytchkova. Carsten Fritz agrees: “Mistakes are learning steps—and we urgently need these learning steps.”
One thing is particularly clear: AI will fundamentally change the fight against financial crime. Networked agent systems will run through scenarios, detect anomalies, and prepare decisions. “We are talking about operational operating systems for the future of compliance,” says Stoytchkova. Speed is crucial, because: “In a race, the one who is more courageous always leads,” summarizes Carsten Fritz.
A format with attitude
Tech & Tacheles is aimed at decision-makers at financial services providers. In each episode, guests draw cards with provocative statements from a “black box,” take a position, and engage in open and informed discussion. The podcast is hosted by Birgit Hass, Senior Marketing Manager at Sopra Financial Technology.
Listen now
The new episode of Tech & Tacheles “Innovate or Die” is now online. Listen now – on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or at: www.sopra-financial-technology.com/podcast
About the podcast
Tech & Tacheles is Sopra Financial Technology's podcast for the financial sector. External and internal experts discuss IT, technology, and banking in a clear, opinionated, and well-informed manner. No buzzwords, just attitude. For more information about Tech & Tacheles, visit: https://www.sopra-financial-technology.com/de-de/insights/podcast
About Sopra Financial Technology:
Sopra Financial Technology GmbH offers regulatory-compliant operation of modular, scalable, and customizable applications in the financial services industry. The company combines traditional legacy systems with innovative products and services, incorporating modern cloud solutions in a high-performance operation and secure environment. With around 300 employees and headquarters in Nuremberg, the company is distinguished by its expertise in banking, regulatory affairs, solution orientation, and project management. Founded in 1983 as Sparda-Datenverarbeitung eG, Sopra Financial Technology GmbH has been part of the Sopra Steria Group since 2019, which has more than 50,000 employees in around 30 countries.
Contact:
Sopra Financial Technology GmbH
Birgit Hass
Frankenstraße 146, 90461 Nuremberg, Germany
Phone: +49 911 9291-0
Email: communications.sft@soprasteria.com