Article written by:
Doug Davidson, CISA
Director of Information Technology Services
The manufacturing sector is the second most attacked business sector. However, we do not hear as often about attacks to manufacturing firms because successful attacks knock systems offline or intercept bank transactions rather than expose regulated personal information. Without the regulatory obligation to report, many of these attacks with real losses never make the press, or simply end up being identified as general technical issues rather than cyberattacks.
The bite of a ransomware attack taking production systems offline, or the money lost from a business email compromise, is real and particularly dangerous to businesses. Yet, because of the lack of reporting requirements, many manufacturing firms are not aware of their risks. Even conscious companies recognize the shortage of information security and information control systems as well as skilled operational technology professionals capable to deal with the threat.
Columbus Cyber Security for Control Systems, a part of Control System Cyber Security Association International, and its professionals are skilled in Cyber Security for Automated Processes and Control Systems, including security for Operating Technology (OT), Industrial Control Systems (ICS), SCADA Systems, Transportation Systems, Building Control Systems (BCS), and even emerging Internet of Things (IoT) systems. Doug Davidson, GBQ’s Director of Information Technology Services, is on the Board of the local group, which works to connect the professionals in the central Ohio area with a real interest in, or responsibility for, the cybersecurity of these systems.
The group hosts quarterly social meetings with a leading expert or professional from the field sharing personal experiences. For more information on getting your company’s IT and OT professionals plugged into the Columbus Cyber Security for Control Systems, please contact Doug at ddavidson@gbq.com or 614-947-5340.
