One Click Away From Chaos: Protecting Client Operations
Every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month reminds us that staying safe online is not only for IT professionals, but everyone's responsibility! Cybersecurity is a business concern, a client concern, and your concern. At Interstates, we are seeing rapid changes in the cyber landscape, and clients are feeling that, too. With that being said, it's become abundantly clear: cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.
What We're Seeing
Cyber threats are evolving faster than ever, especially with accessible technologies like AI. Data theft and breaches are no longer the main concern. Attackers are increasingly targeting industrial environments, meaning that plants can get shut down, production can be halted, or supply chains can be disrupted. Common trends include the following:
- Increased risk of cyberattacks in Operational Technology (OT) environments.
- Ransomware risks increased by 15% in 2024, with manufacturing identified as the primary target. Over half of all documented ransomware incidents have occurred within the manufacturing industry.
- Phishing and Social Engineering including AI to create more convincing attacks, which can trick users and security tools.
These threats not only cause technical headaches but can disrupt business operations and compromise our data and our client data.
What's Keeping Clients Up at Night
In today's landscape, clients are feeling the pressure. As their operations grow, the risk grows too, making it more real and more personal. What keeps them awake is not the idea of hackers, but the consequences. Such as:
- Safety Concerns: A cyberattack on an OT environment can do more than stop machines; it can create unsafe and potentially life-threatening conditions for team members.
- Production Downtime: A single cyber incident can completely halt production, potentially costing millions.
- Data Compromise: Theft or exposure of sensitive information can lead to a loss of trust and reputational damage. Not to mention hefty fines!
How Interstates Helps
Interstates doesn't just help clients react to threats; we help prevent them. Interstates provides a suite of cybersecurity services tailored to unique environments, including:
- Cyber Assessments based on compliance frameworks like NIST, ISA/IEC 62442, and more.
- SecureStart program, which helps clients build their resilience with backups, patching, and antivirus solution implementations.
- Custom solutions for tailored results.
- Policy recommendations and development.
- Network segmentation to contain potential incidents.
What You Can Do
Everyone has a role in cybersecurity. No matter your position, here is how you can help:
- Practice good cyber hygiene by thinking before you click, using strong & unique passwords, and reporting suspicious emails.
- Protect yourself by building cyber-aware habits.
- Be an advocate for practicing cybersecurity!
The Bottom Line
Cybersecurity is an issue for everyone. Together, we can protect ourselves, our clients, and our communities. So, next time you ask yourself, "Is this necessary?", when updating your password or completing your security training, take that step—because being cybersafe is how we all help save the day!
Author Introduction: Danielle Stewart, Cybersecurity Analyst
Danielle is a Cyber Analyst I at Interstates, where she began as an intern before joining full-time in 2024. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in cybersecurity and thrives in the fast-paced and rewarding nature of her role, especially when it brings a bit of an adrenaline rush. Outside of work, Danielle enjoys traveling and making wine. Thanks for all your hard work, Danielle!