Concerns about cyber threats against critical infrastructure

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The report on 'Cybersecurity and Critical Infrastructure Protection in the Americas' includes feedback from government agencies and security professionals representing critical industries including: communications, finance, manufacturing, energy, and security.

"This research should serve as a wake-up-call that critical infrastructures have become a prime target for cybercriminals. These groups have escalated their attacks by leveraging destructive campaigns against the infrastructures of the Western Hemisphere," said Tom Kellermann, chief cyber security officer of Trend Micro. "It is our hope that these findings will serve as a catalyst to motivate and encourage necessary change. It is a very positive and constructive sign to see leaders across government and industry appreciate the severity of this threat and express a strong willingness to address the challenge through greater investment and public-private partnership."

Findings depict a stark reality wherein there have been concentrated efforts to impact on critical infrastructure adversely, with 44% of respondents encountering destructive attacks and 40% experiencing system shutdown attempts. Complete with country-specific case studies and analysis of cyber-attacks and methodologies, the report details current cybersecurity measures and policies, as well as overall attacked preparedness.

Serious vulnerabilities

"Governments in the Americas and around the world must recognise the serious vulnerabilities inherent to critical infrastructure and the potential for grave consequences if not properly secured," said Neil Klopfenstein, Executive Secretary of the OAS Inter-American Committee against Terrorism (CICTE). "From electrical grids and water treatment plants, to oil exploration fossil fuel supplies and transportation, these systems are vital to virtually every element of society. This report reinforces a need to continue strengthening protection of critical infrastructures in our member states, while collaborating and sharing information so as to address these issues collectively and foster a secure and resilient cyber space for government, businesses and citizens in the region."

The complete report can be accessed at www.trendmicro.com/oas