Rising Embracement of Technology Amplifies Vulnerability of Agricultural Fields in Cyberspace
In a recent report titled 'Cybersecurity in Agriculture,' research and analytics company GlobalData has highlighted an alarming trend: an increase in ransomware attacks on food suppliers and distributors within the agricultural sector. This surge in cyber threats could potentially disrupt the entire food supply chain, leading to food shortages, increased prices, and spoilage.
Two key players in the agricultural machinery manufacturing industry, Kubota and AGCO, are not just producing tractors and combines but are also investing heavily in technology development, including cybersecurity and precision agriculture technologies. Similarly, Cojali, known for its cybersecurity certifications in the automotive and agricultural equipment sectors, is also making strides in this area.
John Deere and Lely, traditional agricultural companies, are also joining the fray, focusing on hiring and innovating in cybersecurity. The report, however, does not delve into specific measures these companies are taking to mitigate the risks.
The agricultural sector is embracing technologies like robotics, AI, and IoT to address challenges such as labour shortages and climate change. However, these technological solutions often come with overlooked security risks. The report warns that critical infrastructure in the agricultural sector cannot afford to go down due to cyberattacks.
Ransomware attacks are causing production shipment delays in the agricultural sector, according to the report. For instance, John Deere tractors now incorporate tablets and AI, making them potential targets for cybercriminals.
The report does not provide details on the impact of cyberattacks on the overall productivity of the agricultural sector or the exact number of ransomware attacks or the scale of the threat posed by large-scale cyberattacks. However, it is clear that trading and distribution in the agricultural industry involve extensive supply chain networks with vast amounts of data at risk.
GlobalData analyst Holly Anness-Bradshaw stated that cybersecurity is a growing concern in the agriculture sector. Companies are urged to invest in cybersecurity measures across all stages of the agricultural supply chain to protect against these threats. The agricultural industry is increasingly using technological solutions to support shrinking workforces and improve productivity, but these advancements must be balanced with robust cybersecurity measures to ensure the resilience of the food supply chain.
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