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Cybersecurity is often associated with finance, healthcare, and government sectors, but construction is not immune to cyberthreats.
The more companies embrace digital tools, the more they face exposure to a wide range of cyber risks.
The Reason Why Hackers Target Construction Companies
So, why are hackers targeting construction firms? Why not banks or billion-dollar-business deals?
Construction firms – like any modern business – store valuable data, which offers the potential for quick and easy financial gains for cybercriminals. It’s a common misconception that these individuals are only interested in the big business entities since those big names tend to be protected by the best cybersecurity out there.
The industry’s use of connected devices, cloud-based project management, and remote access – often with lax or limited security – makes it another target. A breach in security can lead to project delays, financial losses, and reputational damage.
The Long and Short of it
Unlike traditional IT-focused industries, construction firms sometimes lack dedicated cybersecurity teams.
Many rely on third-party vendors for software and cloud services, creating multiple entry points for attackers. In any construction site, there may be multiple stakeholders – contractors, suppliers, and engineers – using different systems, increasing the risk of unsecured access points.
The use of mobile devices and remote work increases the risk.
Key Cybersecurity Threats
Unsecured remote access: The rise of remote work and mobile access to management platforms makes securing remote connections crucial. Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is an effective way of encrypting data and protecting sensitive information when accessing systems off-site.
Phishing scams: Employees are tricked into revealing sensitive information. Kroll’s security report said attacks were getting more sophisticated: “In particular, with regards to phishing, we saw SMS and voice-based tactics being used, which raises concern around the potential for deep fakes and AI-type technologies to further enhance the effectiveness of phishing attacks”.
Ransomware: Cybercriminals infiltrate systems, encrypt data, and demand ransom payments in exchange for access. Without adequate backup and recovery strategies, companies can find themselves at the mercy of attackers.
Insider threats: Employees intentionally or unintentionally compromising security. Weak passwords, unsecured devices, and shared login details can all lead to breaches.
The consequences
A cyberattack can have major consequences. Data breaches can expose sensitive information, such as blueprints, financial records, and employee data.
Ransomware attacks can halt operations, forcing companies to pay large fees to regain access to their systems. Even a minor breach can disrupt supply chains, leading to costly project delays.
Here’s What You Should Do For Better Cybersecurity
Get those strong access controls and implement them. No employee should have access to information above their means or pay-grade. Use multi-factor authentication to weed out those wanting to unjustifiably know more.
Train, train, train. Your colleagues are in a classic kung-fu film: starting at the bottom, truly humbled, but training relentlessly in pursuit of that higher-being of mastering cybersecurity practices. Employees are often the first line of defense.
Conducting regular training sessions can educate employees on phishing, passwords, and security protocols – keep them good at what you need them to be good at.
Many construction firms lack in-house expertise. Partnering with cybersecurity professionals can help spot vulnerabilities, implement robust protective measures, and develop a response plan.
Remember: cybercriminals love it when smaller businesses have weak security. They may not house millions of dollars worth of sensitive data, but that ‘little and often’ approach to cybercrime really pays.
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