Mining companies, like most owners and operators of the nation’s critical infrastructure, are becoming increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks as they streamline operations by automating more equipment and running facilities and assets from hundreds of miles away with the aid of sophisticated technology. Necessary reliance on industrial automation and control systems to monitor physical processes, proprietary data, sensitive information, and networks exposes companies to risks.

The consequences of these challenges could be severe. Attackers may find entry to a company’s network through a provider with weak cybersecurity and end up directly controlling critical mine safety systems, processing facilities, or heavy machinery. Attacks on underground ventilation units, tailings, dam monitoring systems, pipeline controls, or gas monitors could significantly impact worker and community safety.