The Latest Cybersecurity In The Infrastructure Industry Statistics Explained
80% of utilities reported that they only learned about potential threats to their infrastructure through a third party or the media.
The statistic “80% of utilities reported that they only learned about potential threats to their infrastructure through a third party or the media” suggests that a significant majority of utilities are not adequately informed about potential risks to their critical infrastructure through internal channels or direct communication with relevant stakeholders. This reliance on external sources such as third parties or the media to become aware of threats indicates a potential vulnerability in the utilities sector’s ability to proactively manage and mitigate risks to their infrastructure. It highlights a need for utilities to strengthen their internal communication systems, enhance their monitoring and detection capabilities, and establish more direct channels of information exchange with relevant authorities to ensure timely and effective response to potential threats.
64% of respondents in the infrastructure industry experienced phishing and social engineering attacks in 2021.
Based on a survey conducted in 2021 within the infrastructure industry, it was found that 64% of respondents reported experiencing phishing and social engineering attacks. This statistic indicates that a significant portion of organizations within the industry have been targeted by cybercriminals using deceptive tactics to gain access to sensitive information or compromise systems. These types of attacks can have serious consequences, including data breaches, financial losses, and damage to reputation. It underscores the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures and providing adequate training to employees to protect against such threats in the future.
Around 47% of infrastructure organizations have experienced a ransomware attack in the last 24 months.
The statistic indicating that around 47% of infrastructure organizations have experienced a ransomware attack in the last 24 months suggests a significant prevalence of cybersecurity threats within the sector. This finding highlights the vulnerability of infrastructure organizations to malicious attacks, such as ransomware, which can pose serious risks to their operations, data security, and financial well-being. The high percentage of organizations affected underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures, regular risk assessments, and continuous monitoring to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats and safeguard against potential disruptions and financial losses. Organizations in the infrastructure sector should prioritize investing in cybersecurity defenses and awareness training to mitigate the impact of ransomware attacks and enhance their resilience against evolving cyber threats.
40% of infrastructure industry respondents cite advanced persistent threats as their primary security concern.
The statistic indicates that 40% of respondents from the infrastructure industry identified advanced persistent threats (APTs) as their main security concern. APTs are sophisticated and targeted cyber attacks that involve gaining unauthorized access to a network and remaining undetected for an extended period to steal sensitive data or disrupt operations. The high percentage of infrastructure industry respondents citing APTs as their primary security concern highlights the growing threat landscape faced by organizations in this sector. It underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure against these advanced and persistent threats to ensure the resilience and security of essential services and systems.
Over 76% of organizations in the infrastructure industry do not have a cybersecurity incident response plan.
The statistic stating that over 76% of organizations in the infrastructure industry do not have a cybersecurity incident response plan indicates a concerning lack of preparedness for handling cyber threats and breaches. This suggests that a large majority of organizations within this sector are vulnerable to cyber attacks and may struggle to effectively respond to security incidents if they occur. Without a proper incident response plan in place, these organizations may face significant risks such as data breaches, financial loss, reputational damage, and operational disruptions. It emphasizes the critical need for infrastructure companies to prioritize cybersecurity measures and implement robust incident response strategies to mitigate potential threats and protect their assets.
Three-quarters of infrastructure-based companies have suffered significant disruption as a result of cybersecurity breaches in the last 12 months.
The statistic suggests that a high percentage, specifically three-quarters, of companies that rely on infrastructure have faced notable disturbances due to cybersecurity breaches within the past year. This indicates a widespread vulnerability within the industry, with a significant portion of infrastructure-based companies being impacted by cyber incidents. Such disruptions can lead to financial losses, operational downtime, compromised data, and potential reputational damage for these organizations. It emphasizes the critical importance of prioritizing cybersecurity measures and investing in robust defenses to safeguard against cyber threats in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Infrastructure organizations are 1.5 times more likely to be targeted by attackers than other industries.
This statistic indicates that infrastructure organizations are at a higher risk of being targeted by attackers compared to other industries, as they are 1.5 times more likely to experience cyber attacks. This implies that infrastructure organizations, such as energy, transportation, and utilities sectors, may face greater cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities that could potentially lead to data breaches, service disruptions, or other security incidents. The increased likelihood of being targeted suggests that these organizations should prioritize strengthening their cybersecurity measures to mitigate risks and protect critical infrastructure systems from cyber threats.
62% of oil and gas companies reported up to 50 cyber attacks in one year.
This statistic indicates that 62% of oil and gas companies experienced up to 50 cyber attacks within a one-year period. This suggests that a significant portion of companies within this industry are being targeted by cyber attacks, highlighting the vulnerability of the sector to cybersecurity threats. The frequency of attacks reported by these companies underscores the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures and investing in cybersecurity resources to protect sensitive data, infrastructure, and operations from potential threats and disruptions. It also emphasizes the need for continuous monitoring, detection, and response capabilities to safeguard against cyber risks in the evolving digital landscape of the oil and gas industry.
Only 42% of infrastructure organizations feel their security infrastructure is up to date.
The statistic stating that only 42% of infrastructure organizations feel their security infrastructure is up to date suggests that a significant majority of such organizations may be facing potential vulnerabilities and inefficiencies in their security systems. This could be a concerning indicator of gaps in modern security measures, potentially leaving these organizations at a higher risk of security breaches, data loss, and other cyber threats. It highlights the importance of regularly assessing and updating security infrastructure to ensure optimal protection against evolving threats in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
63% of infrastructure companies do not take steps to protect their systems until after an attack has occurred.
This statistic suggests that a majority (63%) of infrastructure companies are reactive rather than proactive when it comes to protecting their systems from cyber attacks. In other words, these companies are not implementing preventive measures to safeguard their infrastructure until they have already experienced a security breach. This lack of proactivity can leave them vulnerable to various cyber threats and potentially result in significant damages to their systems and data. It highlights a concerning trend within the industry where organizations may not be prioritizing cybersecurity measures until they have already suffered the consequences of a breach.
Cyber attacks in the infrastructure sector increased by 110% from 2016 to 2020.
The statistic states that the number of cyber attacks targeting the infrastructure sector experienced a significant 110% increase between the years 2016 and 2020. This statistic highlights a growing threat and vulnerability within the infrastructure sector to cyber attacks, which can have severe consequences on critical systems and services. The substantial increase suggests that cybersecurity measures and defenses within the infrastructure sector may be inadequate to effectively protect against evolving cyber threats. Therefore, there is a crucial need for heightened cybersecurity efforts, investment in advanced technologies, and increased awareness to mitigate the risks posed by cyber attacks in the infrastructure sector.
1 in 2 infrastructure companies are unable to detect a breach in their ICS system without outside help.
This statistic suggests that half of all infrastructure companies are not able to identify a security breach in their Industrial Control Systems (ICS) autonomously and require external assistance. This finding highlights a significant gap in the cybersecurity measures of these companies specifically related to the detection of breaches in their critical systems. It indicates a potential vulnerability in the infrastructure sector, with implications for operational disruptions, data breaches, and potential threats to public safety. Addressing this issue is crucial for ensuring the security and resilience of critical infrastructure systems against cyber threats.
In 2020, around 96% of infrastructure companies reported security incidents.
The statistic that around 96% of infrastructure companies reported security incidents in 2020 indicates a high prevalence of cybersecurity challenges within the industry. This data suggests that a vast majority of companies operating within the infrastructure sector experienced some form of security breach, highlighting the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber threats. The reported incidents may encompass a range of cybersecurity issues, including data breaches, malware attacks, or network intrusions. As such, this statistic underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and proactive strategies to safeguard infrastructure systems and minimize the risk of potential disruptions or compromises to essential services.
In 2021, there was a 500% increase in Ransomware attacks targeting the infrastructure industry.
The statistic “In 2021, there was a 500% increase in Ransomware attacks targeting the infrastructure industry” indicates a significant and alarming rise in the number of cyberattacks specifically aimed at the infrastructure sector. A 500% increase means that the number of ransomware attacks in 2021 was five times higher than in the previous year or period under consideration. This sharp spike in attacks suggests that cybercriminals are increasingly targeting critical infrastructure such as transportation systems, energy grids, and telecommunications networks, posing a serious threat to the stability and security of essential services. The statistic underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and vigilance within the infrastructure industry to protect against these evolving cyber threats.
Infrastructure organizations spend an average of $7.12 million per data breach, the highest of any industry.
The statistic indicates that infrastructure organizations incur the highest financial costs from data breaches compared to other industries, with an average of $7.12 million being spent per breach. This figure highlights the significant economic impact of data breaches on infrastructure companies, which can include costs associated with investigating the breach, notifying affected parties, implementing cybersecurity measures, and potential legal expenses. The high cost suggests that infrastructure organizations face unique challenges in safeguarding their systems and data against cyber threats, which may be attributed to the valuable nature of their data, the complexity of their network infrastructure, and the potential for widespread disruptions in critical services. As such, it underscores the importance for these organizations to prioritize investment in robust cybersecurity measures to mitigate the financial implications of data breaches and protect their operations and reputation.
By 2025, the global cyber security market in infrastructure is expected to reach $22.14 billion.
The statistic states that by the year 2025, the global cyber security market specifically focused on infrastructure is projected to reach a value of $22.14 billion. This suggests a significant and growing demand for cyber security solutions to protect critical infrastructure such as networks, systems, and data from potential cyber threats and attacks. The increasing reliance on digital technologies and the interconnected nature of global infrastructure systems have fueled the need for robust cyber security measures to safeguard against potential risks. The projected market value serves as an indication of the importance placed on protecting infrastructure from cyber threats and the investment being made in cyber security solutions to mitigate such risks in the upcoming years.
Conclusion
It is clear from the statistics presented that cybersecurity is a critical concern in the infrastructure industry. The increasing number of cyber threats highlights the importance of investing in robust cybersecurity measures to protect vital infrastructure assets. By staying informed and implementing proactive security strategies, organizations in the infrastructure sector can effectively mitigate cyber risks and safeguard their operations.
References
0. – https://www.www.sans.org
1. – https://www.www.accenture.com
2. – https://www.www.pwc.com
3. – https://www.www.ibm.com
4. – https://www.www.cybersecurity-insiders.com
5. – https://www.www.utilitydive.com
6. – https://www.www.bdo.com
7. – https://www.broadcast-everywhere.net
8. – https://www.www.tenable.com
9. – https://www.www.cisco.com
10. – https://www.www.us-cert.gov
11. – https://www.www.globenewswire.com
12. – https://www.www.capgemini.com
13. – https://www.bricata.com
14. – https://www.www.verizon.com
