industry unlocked
Klaus Gheri,VP Network Security and
GM at Barracuda Networks
In the diverse industry that is construction,
it’s important that business leaders keep
security top of mind to avoid falling behind on
its road to Digital Transformation. Klaus Gheri,
Vice President Network Security and General
Manager at Barracuda Networks, discusses
using technology to combat cyberthreats in
the construction sector.
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What are some of the unique
cyberthreats to the construction
sector and why?
Decentralisation: By nature, most construction
companies are highly decentralised. There are
many stakeholders involved in construction
projects that are highly dependent on mobile
devices and laptops, offering multiple access
points to networks and creating vulnerabilities if
they are not all adequately protected and trained
on cybersecurity.
Connected Industrial devices like construction
cranes, asphalt pavers: The fourth industrial
revolution is slowly creeping into the construction
sector, with permanently connected and
autonomously operating heavy machinery.
Obviously, these need to be properly protected
from malicious threats.
Confidential information: Although construction
companies do not host the type of personal
information hackers find desirable (e.g., credit
cards or financial records), they still have access
to clients’ confidential information. Compromised
intellectual property such as building
specifications and architectural drawings can
provide a roadmap for criminals to gain access
to valuable personally identifiable information
including financial accounts and employee data.
Just like any other company, if you have access
to this type of confidential information, you’re
vulnerable to the common forms of cyberattacks.
Business interruption: As in any industry,
cyberattacks can result in costly business
interruptions for construction companies. A delay
in construction projects can be quite costly, up to
the point where the contract is revoked and passed
to a competitor. This potential disruption
must be built into the preventative
measures of a risk management plan for
construction projects.
How is the construction sector
rising to the challenge of
combating these threats?
In an increasingly digitised and
connected world, cybersecurity needs
Issue 22
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