Transportation

The Challenge: Protecting transport networks from cybersecurity threats

Whether by rail, road, air, or sea, transport and logistics systems play a critical role in supporting the global infrastructure network. Today’s transportation systems are more sophisticated than ever, comprising complex plans, large volumes of real-time information, and connectivity through the industrial internet of things (IIoT). 

Cybersecurity for the transportation sector faces two primary challenges: 

• Preventing disruptions to the transport infrastructure to ensure the flow of freight and passengers and; 
• Preventing transportation systems from becoming a target of cybersecurity attacks

The digitisation of railway systems, such as the European signaling ERTMS system (European Rail Traffic Management System), has made public transport systems vulnerable to a new generation of cybersecurity threats. In 2020 alone, ransomware attacks on the global transportation industry saw a 186% increase year-over-year. 

These challenges require continuous updating of cybersecurity practices and new methodologies to keep transport systems agile. Failure to take action can be costly and disruptive, potentially exposing organisations to liability and legal action, particularly when customer data breaches are involved. 

We Understand Your Needs

As global transportation and logistics networks continue to evolve alongside the rise of new technologies, organisations like yours must recognise the importance of cyber resilience and its ability to protect cargo and passengers.

1. Maintaining cyber resilience and continuity of operations

Resilience to cybersecurity attacks requires more than just creating controls and processes. Your transport firm’s resilience begins and ends with the people in charge of data and assets. From IT personnel to executives, every employee must adopt a cybersecurity-first mindset. This means recognising that people are the first line of defence against threats. Through training and inhouse workshops, safety and security can be at the heart of your practises and corporate culture.

2. Detecting and responding to data breaches

The rapid digitalisation of transport networks puts you at risk of disruptions caused by data breaches. As more devices and transport control systems depend on online connectivity, vulnerabilities will inevitably arise, increasing the potential for sensitive data to wind up in unscrupulous hands.

3. Using cybersecurity as competitive advantage

With new threats constantly emerging, you must do your due diligence to identify risks and shut down attacks before they affect operations. Steps that you can take to manage cybersecurity threats include:

• Identify and implement cybersecurity best practises
• Set up an effective cybersecurity risk governance structure
• Establish processes to understand threats and set a suitable risk appetite for cybersecurity activities
• Initiate incident-response protocols with tested plans to minimise the impact of cyberattacks

Why choose TÜV SÜD for transportation cybersecurity threats?

At TÜV SÜD, our cybersecurity specialists provide advisory, assessment, training, audit, and certification services specifically designed for the transportation industry. Our solutions cover all aspects of IT security in the transportation sector, from rail cybersecurity and IT penetration testing to TS 50701 and IEC 62443 (railway) certification projects.

Overcoming external and internal cybersecurity issues and threats to critical IT infrastructure requires expertise and experience. Powered by over 150 years of safety and security experience, TÜV SÜD delivers unbiased advice and trusted in-house safety and security workshops for transportation firms.

As a leader in helping organisations worldwide navigate through their digital transformation journey, TÜV SÜD is acutely aware of the cybersecurity challenges that come with digitalisation. We are here to work alongside your team to conduct comprehensive security tests and stay on top of new regulatory requirements in the transportation industry. 

Work with a trusted name in cybersecurity to ensure the resilience of your transportation networks and keep your customers’ data safe. Our team of 25,000 multidisciplinary experts from more than 1,000 locations around the world is here for you.

Cybersecurity Challenges for Your transportation sector

Aligning systems with security-by-design principles

Railway companies must follow risk management procedures and conduct continuous auditing according to industry-specific guidance. Adhering to security-by-design principles ensures that the networks and technologies supporting your infrastructure are designed and built securely.

Meeting KRITIS requirements for IT security

In Germany, KRITIS providers, such as water, food, electricity, and transport, are required under the IT Security Act 2.0 to demonstrate that they are enforcing cybersecurity measures to protect their systems. The constant threats you face require you to maintain the highest safety and security standards.

Securing products and systems data operational risks

Your firm has a wide range of datasets flowing between physical and digital systems, allowing cybercriminals to hide in the heavy traffic to attack and control informational and operational data. Your IT infrastructure must have the appropriate security measures and defences in place to manage these risks.

Detecting and responding to security incidents

Apart from compromised data, cybercrime can have a debilitating impact on railway companies due to disruptions like for example: 1. Interruption of traffic lights, electronic signals, toll booths, and railway signal systems 2. Disruption of ticketing machines and fare gates 3. Blocked access to backend systems and data

Penalties and fines for non-compliance

KRITIS organisations that fail to comply with industry regulations face fines of up to €20 million or up to 4% of their annual turnover, whichever is higher. Failure to comply with KRITIS regulations may also lead to imprisonment and the prosecution of responsible executives, managers, and personnel.

Ensuring the availability and resilience of operational systems

Cyberattacks on transport networks can have lingering effects that last weeks, if not months. Attacks that can paralyse transportation systems and networks include: DDoS attacks, DNS attacks, credential stuffing, brute force attacks, DNS spoofing, malware, data manipulation and content theft, and phishing.

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