New threats to the rail sector: Why cybersecurity is more important than ever

The rail industry is one of the world's most important infrastructures. It moves millions of people and goods every day and is the backbone of many economies. But as rail systems become more digitised and interconnected, the risk of cyber-attacks is also increasing. Current developments show that the threat is real and growing rapidly.

The new threats to the rail sector

Gone are the days when the security risks to the rail sector were mainly physical. Today, rail operators face a variety of digital threats that can jeopardise both operational safety and public security.

1. Ransomware attacks
   Cybercriminals are targeting critical infrastructure (including rail systems) to disrupt operations and demand large ransoms. The impact of a successful attack can be far-reaching, from train cancellations and delays to financial and reputational damage.
2. Weaknesses in the security of railway applications
   Railway applications (e.g. interlockings) responsible for controlling signals, switches and power supply are increasingly networked. These systems have often been designed without cybersecurity in mind, providing potential entry points for attackers.
3. IoT devices as a vulnerability
   The introduction of IoT devices such as sensors to monitor infrastructure or improve customer service brings many benefits. However, insecure applications can create backdoors for attackers and compromise critical systems.
4. Phishing and social engineering
   Attackers exploit human weaknesses to gain access to systems. Employees can be tricked into revealing sensitive data or installing malware through targeted phishing campaigns or social engineering techniques.

Why is the railway sector a target?

The rail sector can be a lucrative target for cybercriminals or state-sponsored hackers for a number of reasons:

• Economic importance: The rail sector is vital to the movement of people and goods. Disruption to operations can cause significant economic damage.
• Public visibility: Attacks on rail systems attract media attention, making them a target for attackers seeking maximum visibility.
• Aging infrastructure: Many rail systems have a lifespan of decades and were not designed with today's cybersecurity requirements in mind.

How can railway operators protect themselves?

The threats are many, but with the right strategy, rail operators can protect their systems and make them more resilient. Here are some key measures:

1. Regular audits and threat simulations
   Security audits help identify vulnerabilities in systems before attackers can exploit them. Simulated cyber-attacks are an effective way to test the current security of the system.
2. Secure IoT/OT devices
   Each connected device should be equipped with the latest security updates (if possible). In addition, segregation into separate networks should be implemented.
3. Employee awareness and training
   The majority of attacks start with human error. Regular training and awareness campaigns can minimise the risk.
4. Implement network monitoring
   The implementation of active measures can be problematic due to vendor approvals or lack thereof. In this case, the introduction of network monitoring systems provides an effective and non-intrusive solution to maintaining visibility of railway application networks.

The railways of the future are digital and connected - but they also need to be secure. Investing in advanced security strategies and technologies is no longer an option, it is a necessity.