Weak cyber defenses are exposing critical infrastructure — how enterprises can proactively thwart cunning attackers to protect us all
1 min read
Summary
Poor cybersecurity practices at private companies represent a greater risk to critical national infrastructure than direct attacks, with 84% of businesses surveyed earning a D grade or worse for their cybersecurity practices.
The finance and insurance sectors were highlighted as an example, with nearly 40% of companies surveyed earning a D or failing grade.
Mismatched expectations between businesses’ use of AI in cybersecurity and their preparedness for potential threats from AI-powered cyber attacks are also highlighted, with two-thirds of companies expecting AI to shape cybersecurity this year, but only 37% having the processes in place to check their AI tools are secure.
The Colonial Pipeline attack disrupted energy supplies and exposed vulnerabilities in critical industries, and rising geopolitical tensions, especially with China, are amplifying these risks.
The article concludes that collaboration between private businesses and government agencies is crucial to improving cybersecurity and strengthening digital defences.