American agriculture has a growing need to strengthen its defenses against cyber assaults.
The computers, sensors, GPS, and cloud-based data systems that help producers boost productivity also increase the chances for cybercriminals to worm their way into producers’ operational systems and data.
Cyberattacks on agribusinesses in recent years have demonstrated hackers’ ability to shut down processing plants, halt livestock purchases, and cost corporations millions.
The University of Nebraska educational system is working to strengthen agricultural cyber defenses.
Multiple projects with various funding sources, including federal government grants, are at the forefront of analyzing and addressing vulnerabilities.
“Many technologies used in precision agriculture, such as drones, have been designed for use and affordability before data security,” said Meghan Jackson of the University of Nebraska. “Disruptions of an automatic irrigation system or hacking a dairy’s control system could mean the failure of an entire season or the death of livestock.”
