Meet Cybera Global CEO Nicola Staub and find out what role the Terminator plays in the prevention of cybercrimes

“cybera.’s fintech platform prevents cybercrime and online fraud.”


How and where did you come up with the idea for your startup? 
The idea emerged while working as a public prosecutor. My job was, together with the police, to investigate cybercrimes and catch cybercriminals. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to catch them all. This led me to think of new ways to prevent and stop the ever-increasing losses these crimes generate. Our startup, cybera., is the direct result of that: We combine expert knowledge, a trusted public-private-partnership approach, and private company speed and tech innovation. Together with banks, we stop cybercriminals from cashing out their illegal profits.

What do you expect from the Venture Leaders program, and how will it help you achieve your vision? 
Cybercrime is global. The absolute majority of attacks aim to steal money in one way or another. Since the internet does not really know any borders, and money easily moves transnationally, we now live in an era where criminals can target their victims globally and commit crimes from anywhere in the world. The response to such internationally organized crimes can only be global as well. Since our fintech platform strives to become a major driver for change, it must be global from the very beginning. We expect the Venture Leaders program to open additional doors to kick-start our international vision, particularly in the Asian and American regions. 

Where and when are you most productive?
I find myself to be particularly productive when traveling on a plane or train. I guess to be “moving” myself somehow moves my thoughts as well. Luckily, I found out that wearing a face mask does not stop that process. So, with caution and when reasonable, I keep moving even during the pandemic. 

How and where do you clear your mind? 
Definitely sports for me: the gym, running, and swimming. Of course, my family and friends are also great at providing a distraction.

What is the most challenging aspect of being a founder? 
I guess it is a challenge everyone faces: fail and get up again; fail and get up again; fail and get up again. As a founder, I feel like this process happens a lot more often than before. 

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a founder? 
As a founder, you naturally need to take risks. You cannot be risk-averse. Often, taking these risks turns out positive, sometimes even very positive, and leads to great results. I find it truly rewarding to be a part and sometimes even the initiating force of such progress. And even when you fail, you always know that you tried and gave it your best shot, which is also a critical step in moving forward.

Whom do you admire?
My family. Their ongoing support, positive mindset, and unbiased opinions are so important for my own path. 
And Arnold Schwarzenegger: From what I can tell, his life path is unusual, risky, and successful. And he never loses his humor or takes himself too seriously. I admire that. 

Last but not least, can you show us your workspace?