In this day and age, it seems as if there are more and more stories of hacking on the news or floating around the internet. However, it is even more bothersome to those who are IT professionals in charge of keeping their utility management system safe from these hacking attacks. Nobody takes the news of these data breaches without concern and utility management system professionals know just how crucial it is to keep their systems secure. There is so much data at risk and the consequences of these breaches are devastating.
The danger for a breach in utilities is very real and something that consumers take for granted. It does not occur to many that their power, water, Internet networks, transportation networks, gas and oil pipelines could be hacked and can lead to a system failure. If one system fails, the others could be affected and lead to a catastrophic disaster. However, there are ways to help protect utility management systems.
Tips to Help Protect Utilities Management Systems
- Human beings are, of course, the ultimate threat to security. They are sometimes completely clueless and unaware of what they are doing. Ignorance can lead to a disaster which is why it is extremely important that a company offers the proper training. Employees and contractors can often be rather uneducated about even the most basic security steps. They need this information in order to keep security in place. It is also important to have on the job training. Technology is changing every day and so are the attacks.
- Realistically, there are multiple areas of weakness within all types of organizations. It is currently impossible to have a completely secure system and with the whole idea of bringing your own device, it’s hard to keep track of every little thing that’s going on. Employers must make sure that they are aware of all potential areas of attack, including mobile devices, passwords, email, social networks, phishing scams, and even vendors that have access to their facility at any time.
- Of course, a company can do all the training they can think of, but if the employees have no idea how to operate and function when an actual cyber attack happens, a company will be in a lot of trouble with disastrous results. Therefore, it is a good idea to have mock cyber attacks as part of ongoing training. This can help prepare employees even further and give them a chance to work out flaws in their operation. It serves as a great learning opportunity for the company as a whole.
- Now, after discussing the importance surrounding training and routine mock cyber attacks as part of a company’s standard operating practices, the data that could be collected from the result of these tips could be analyzed. Employees should also be closely monitored on training sessions and individual performance on the mock cyber attacks. Performance testing is crucial when it comes to emergency preparedness and the ability to function with effectiveness when a major crisis does occur. When teams form in this manner, a company is creating what could well be defined as a very nicely built firewall. It is a great strategy to have this sentinel type mindset when it comes to keeping utility management systems protected from attacks.
Visit Clarus Communications here or call us at 855-801-6700 to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff so we can work with you on finding the right utilities management system for your business at the most affordable rates. Our goal is to ensure high levels of customer service plus building and maintaining a system that enables your business to run well.
Clarus Communications is a national leader that specializes in providing over 60 telecommunication and technology provider solutions and we would appreciate the opportunity to become your technology partner and help you find the best solution for you and your company.