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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
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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
combatting these threats?
In an increasingly digitised and
connected world, cybersecurity needs
to be considered at all stages of a firm’s
operation. The construction industry as a
whole is unfortunately known to be rather
slow at adopting new technologies.
Countless studies and surveys over
the years have shown that business
owners continue to under invest in
technology. While it may seem daunting,
cybersecurity can be approached and
managed in surprisingly the same way
as many other risk factors. Luckily, we’re
seeing large construction companies
already stepping up.
Can you outline any use cases of
how technology is being used to
mitigate threats?
Mobility: Just as the fact that
construction is carried out in a variety of
sites and locations represents a physical
risk. Bases can often be temporary
locations such as on-site cabins and
trailers, with workers connecting to
business networks and systems via
laptops, tablets and smartphones.
Nevertheless, security must not be any
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