Nokia
Securing Digital Railways against Cyber-Attacks
A Growing Array of Cyber-Security Challenges
The adoption of IP-based networks and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies is enhancing safety, increasing operational efficiency and improving the passenger experience. Yet, because these networks are more interconnected than traditional railway communications systems (which tend to be more isolated), they can increase the vulnerability of railway operations to cyber-attack.
Similarly, the growing use of sensors, meters, surveillance cameras and other devices to support real-time monitoring opens the possibility of IoT devices providing a back door into the network. Railways are also taking greater advantage of wireless networks from GSM-R to LTE to 5G technologies that must be engineered precisely to ensure full security.
Threats arise in many ways, not just from criminals, foreign agents, or even disenchanted employees. Many breaches can be traced back to human error and even the best trained staff can be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of daily attacks.
Railway operators also face increasingly stringent legal, regulatory and compliance requirements, making them directly accountable for ensuring effective information security.
A robust, end-to-end cyber-security strategy can address many of these challenges. Nokia offers in-depth expertise on cyber-security best practices.
