Don’t Let Cyber Threats Catch You Off Guard
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting our electronic information from unauthorized access attacks. It is important because it helps our people safeguard their personal data, financial transactions, and online activity. Technology is becoming more prevalent in our day-to-day, as we use it for various purposes including learning, communication, education, entertainment, and wellness. In this era of remote work and digital transformation, our professions have also become dependent on technology. We use various tools and platforms to collaborate with our colleagues, clients, and partners. We store and share sensitive data and information on cloud services. To protect ourselves, our families, and our organizations from cyber threats, it is important to practice good cyber habits, including:
- Use a secure VPN connection when accessing work-related resources or services from home or public networks.
- Encrypt data and devices to prevent unauthorized access or theft.
- Follow the policies and guidelines of your organization regarding cybersecurity and data protection.
- Report any suspicious or unusual activity or incident to your IT Department or supervisor.
- Stay up to date with your skills and knowledge on the latest trends and developments in cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity in the Construction Industry
The construction industry is undergoing a digital transformation, adopting new technologies such as AI, robotics, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT). While these technologies enable greater efficiencies, productivity, and innovation, they also create new vulnerabilities. Some of the challenges the construction industry is facing in terms of cybersecurity include:
- Lack of Awareness and Regulation: The construction industry has historically been less regulated and less aware of cybersecurity issues than other sectors, such as healthcare or finance.
- Complex and Diverse Supply Chain: The construction industry involves various stakeholders, such as contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, architects, and clients. Each of these parties may have different levels of cybersecurity maturity and practices, creating inconsistencies and gaps in the security of the entire project.
- Dynamic and Remote Work Environment: The construction industry operates in a dynamic and remote work environment, using various devices and applications to access and share data, all while workers move from one site to another. All of these variables increase exposure to cyberattacks.
Despite these challenges, at Gilbane, we are constantly evolving our cybersecurity resilience and managing opportunities. We consider the privacy and security of our clients, partners, and people as paramount. Gilbane follows a risk reduction strategy by deploying cybersecurity safeguards in technical, operational, and policy environments as we adopt and implement new technologies to gain new efficiencies and cost savings for our customer community.
Cybersecurity awareness should be a year-round initiative, so I encourage everyone to be aware of your company’s cybersecurity resources. Education and awareness on this important topic can help prevent and mitigate cyber threats that can harm your organization and its data. Be proactive in staying informed on the latest cybersecurity developments; be vigilant and watch out for any suspicious activities or behaviors; and be responsible by respecting and protecting your company’s data/assets by not using them for personal or malicious purposes.
