Mitigating Cyber-Induced Pollution Risks
Cybersecurity is essential to safeguard critical infrastructure systems as well as data. We often think about cybercrime in relation to data security breaches. However, cybercriminals can also hack into operating systems to disrupt routine facility operations, potentially causing pollution releases. Most organizations rely on computer systems to remain functional and protected. Examples of some of these operations are:
By interfering with the safe management of this kind of infrastructure, cybercriminals may cause pollution releases, system interruption, property damage, and physical injuries. Skilled hackers can disrupt equipment operation, impede pollution control warning systems, or hinder proper shutdown protocols resulting in:
- Power surges
- Power outages
- Hazardous chemical spills
- Inaccurate chemical levels
- Contamination of water supplies
- Improper waste discharge
- Disruption of waste treatment processes
- Gaseous emissions
In addition, cyberattacks could target environmental monitoring systems to interfere with data collection. If hackers change the environmental data or calculations, inaccurate results will hide problematic pollution levels from regulatory bodies and hamper their ability to provide proper oversight. To mitigate cyber-induced pollution risks, organizations need to take a multi-faceted risk management approach. Here are just a few of the ways an organization can minimize the environmental impact of a cyber threat:
- Implement robust cybersecurity measures. Keep IT systems segmented from operational technology for control systems. Network security and access need to be monitored, updated, and routinely assessed for vulnerabilities.
- Use emerging technology. For example, AI-based monitoring systems can detect even slight changes to control systems. Or, use a virtual replica of a system (called a “digital twin”) to evaluate the response to a simulated cyber attack.
- Prepare contingency plans for worst-case scenarios. If a cyber attack occurs, then what? Figure out backup systems and emergency response protocols, including pollution insurance coverage that offers protection in the event of property damage, injury, and environmental pollution.
- Monitor supply chains: Cybercriminals may target supply chains to disrupt processes. Organizations may want to use a secure encrypted system to keep data private for inventory and shipments.
- Watch updates regarding cybersecurity and environmental regulation. Cybersecurity professionals and environmental regulators are watching for cyberattack trends, news, and environmental threats. Follow their advice to guard against cyberattacks.
The world is becoming increasingly digital and automated, which means businesses must be on the lookout for potential cyber threats. Environmental insurance can provide some protection in the event that a cyber-induced pollution event occurs. Partnering with Beacon Hill Associates to address these concerns as they relate to pollution exposures is crucial. For more information or to discuss a specific account, please contact us.
While the coverages we offer are designed to address these general issues, we make no guarantee or warranty that any individual policy we offer will respond to all issues as described herein. Please refer to the actual policy wording in each offered form to determine coverage applicability and acceptability.
Type: Blog