Aging Critical Infrastructure: A Growing Challenge for Cybersecurity Preparedness

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the security of critical infrastructure has emerged as a paramount concern for federal officials. Aging infrastructure, coupled with the rising threat of cyberattacks and environmental disasters, has prompted a reevaluation of how agencies prepare for and respond to these challenges. At the Act-IAC 2024 Cybersecurity Summit on October 9, key representatives from the Coast Guard, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and the Department of Energy (DoE) discussed the multifaceted approach necessary to safeguard these vital systems.

The State of Critical Infrastructure

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the American Society of Civil Engineers, the average age of critical infrastructure in the United States is around 50 years. Many essential structures, such as navigation systems and dams, are even older. This aging infrastructure presents a dual threat: it is increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks and susceptible to damage from climate-related disasters, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to global warming. For instance, hurricanes like Helene and Milton have raised alarms about the resilience of Tampa’s dams, highlighting the urgent need for modernization and robust security measures.

The Limitations of Modernization

While modernizing infrastructure is a critical step toward enhancing security, federal officials emphasized that it is not a panacea. Patrick Thompson, director of infrastructure for the Coast Guard’s C5I Service Center, pointed out that even after updating infrastructure, new threats and vulnerabilities will inevitably arise. “The biggest threat is our ability as a whole-of-government approach to respond when a problem does come,” he stated. This underscores the importance of not only investing in physical upgrades but also in developing comprehensive response strategies.

A Culture of Readiness

To effectively address the challenges posed by aging infrastructure and emerging threats, officials advocate for fostering a culture of readiness. This involves training and preparedness initiatives, such as hackathons, that engage various stakeholders in cybersecurity practices. Bridget Bean, CISA Executive Director, noted the importance of collaboration across sectors, stating, “Water is no longer just dealing with the water sector; they’re very much engaged with the energy sector and the chemical sector.” This interconnectedness is crucial for understanding and mitigating risks that arise from interdependencies among different critical infrastructures.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a double-edged sword in the realm of cybersecurity. While it can enhance security measures, it also poses new risks. Patrick Selby, chief information security officer at the DoE, remarked, “Is AI good or is AI evil? The answer is yes.” AI can be leveraged to bolster defenses against cyber threats, but it can also be exploited by malicious actors. Selby cautioned against complacency, emphasizing the need for robust cybersecurity hygiene, including encryption methods that can withstand the challenges posed by post-quantum cryptography.

Integrating Cybersecurity into Infrastructure Development

A critical takeaway from the summit was the need to view cybersecurity as an integral part of infrastructure development. Selby advocated for a paradigm shift in how agencies approach the design and implementation of systems, urging that cybersecurity considerations be embedded into the mission from the outset. This proactive stance is essential for ensuring that infrastructure is not only functional but also resilient against evolving threats.

Conclusion

The intersection of aging critical infrastructure and the rising tide of cyber threats presents a formidable challenge for federal officials. As highlighted at the Act-IAC 2024 Cybersecurity Summit, a collaborative, multifaceted approach is essential for enhancing preparedness and response capabilities. By fostering a culture of readiness, leveraging advanced technologies like AI, and integrating cybersecurity into infrastructure development, federal agencies can better safeguard the nation’s critical assets against both cyberattacks and environmental disasters. The path forward requires vigilance, innovation, and a commitment to collaboration across sectors to ensure the resilience of the nation’s infrastructure in the face of an uncertain future.