– Two-thirds of energy professionals plan greater cybersecurity investments. – 78% feel leaders understand cyber risks effectively. – Concerns over foreign attacks increased from 62% to 72%. – Key challenges include securing physical assets and enhancing employee skills.
Key Highlights
– Energy companies recognize cybersecurity as their foremost risk.
– Two-thirds of energy professionals plan to increase cybersecurity investments in 2023.
– 78% believe leadership has adequate understanding of cyber risks.
– Concerns over foreign attacks rose from 62% to 72% from 2023.
– Five main challenges include securing physical infrastructure and enhancing employee awareness.
Cybersecurity as a Primary Concern
Energy companies regard cybersecurity as their greatest threat, prompting two-thirds of energy professionals to anticipate increased investments in this area this year. This trend highlights the growing recognition of the need to adapt to escalating cyber risks amidst evolving digital landscapes.
Understanding Cyber Risks
Recent research from DNV Cyber reveals that 78% of energy professionals feel confident that their leaders possess a sufficient understanding of cyber risks. Additionally, 84% have undergone extensive training, equipping them with actionable skills to respond to potential threats effectively.
Evolving Threat Landscape
The ongoing energy transition has introduced new attack vectors, increasing the sophistication of cybercriminal activities. The reliance on digital technologies leads to heightened exposure to cyber risks, primarily due to increased sensitive data usage and connected environments.
Geopolitical Tensions and Cybersecurity
The growing geopolitical tensions have prompted three-quarters of energy professionals to focus more on cybersecurity measures. Concerns about potential foreign attacks have surged to 72%, markedly up from 62%. Moreover, apprehensions regarding cybercriminal gangs have escalated, climbing from 50% to a striking 79%.
Key Challenges Identified
According to DNV Cyber’s research, five critical challenges energy companies face include:
1. Securing physical infrastructure.
2. Navigating complex cybersecurity supply chains.
3. Enhancing employee awareness.
4. Integrating new skills and competencies.
5. Adapting to artificial intelligence advancements.
Additionally, 71% recognize increasing vulnerability to operational technology (OT) cyber incidents.
Prioritizing Cybersecurity Measures
To bolster cybersecurity frameworks, energy companies must prioritize the security of operational technology and enhance supply chain transparency. Effective training strategies and comprehensive AI knowledge will be vital in fostering a cohesive approach to cybersecurity within organizations.
Energy companies are increasingly recognizing cybersecurity as a critical aspect of their operations. With many professionals advocating for heightened investments and training initiatives, it is evident that securing technological infrastructures against evolving cyber threats is paramount. Addressing the complexities associated with geopolitical tensions and operational vulnerabilities is thus essential for sustaining resilience against cyber attacks.
Original Source: www.techzine.eu
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