WITH PROGRESS COMES RISK: TACKLING CYBERSECURITY ISSUES FOR SMART BUILDINGS
WITH PROGRESS COMES RISK: TACKLING CYBERSECURITY ISSUES FOR SMART BUILDINGS
Modern buildings continue to get smarter, and as they do, cybersecurity is becoming a very real challenge for those invested in protecting connected systems and the people occupying these spaces from emerging online attacks. Coupled with existing and long-standing vulnerabilities in legacy OT systems, the emergence of the unregulated Internet of Things (IoT) technologies will dramatically expand the threat landscape over the next five years.
The distinction between Enterprise IT systems and OT systems offers different perspectives on cyber threats. Attacks on Enterprise networks are now commonplace and typically witnessed in the form of data breaches or ransomware attacks, affecting information or the availability of information. OT systems are fundamentally different to Enterprise IT systems and are often under disparate governance and policy structures.
Smart buildings rely on connectivity to enable social and operational drivers, and yet connectivity increases the risk of cyber-attack. Such cyber-attacks on OT systems can impact critical infrastructure, building services and safety systems and have the potential to shut down buildings, businesses and even economies dependant on the scale, and is already flagged as a key concern by the Australian government.
A joint statement from Attorney-General George Brandis and Treasurer Scott Morrison said, ‘Amid increased privatisation, supply chain outsourcing, and the shift in our international investment profile, Australia’s national critical infrastructure is more exposed than ever to sabotage, espionage and coercion.’
For anyone involved within smart buildings it remains vital to stay connected to key developments in the industry, especially as the evolution of technology impacts the delivery of smarter and safer buildings. Of interest to the industry will be the ARBS Speaker Series presentation: Cyber Security and the Emergence of Smart Buildings by Travis Chehab of AECOM. This presentation will discuss how critical infrastructure and operational technology are emerging as accessible and attractive targets to malicious actors and will consider threats to modern buildings from a security perspective.
Chehab says, ‘All stakeholders must refine how we approach smart building networks, ensuring that the levels and layers of security are addressed by design. With more buildings favouring connectivity, critical is continuing the education and dialogue from the ground up about cybersecurity and risk mitigation.’
Stay tuned, the complete ARBS 2020 program will launch shortly. ARBS is Australia’s premiere event for HVAC&R and building services professionals, and since 1998 has provided a unique B2B forum for the entire industry to connect. Save the date; ARBS 2020 will be held from 19-21 May at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. For further information visit www.arbs.com.au
ABOUT ARBS 2020
Where: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
Exhibition dates: New dates and information coming soon
Cost:
Exhibition –
free of charge, trade visitors only
Seminars –
costs to be advised with final programme
Awards Presentation Dinner –
Tables of 10: $1850 + GST or individual tickets $195 + GST