Keeping up with evolving cyber threats is a struggle, but it is possible to improve operations and data management, while also maintaining strong cybersecurity programs. This post will review cybersecurity best practices within the joint use community.
1. Maintaining Advanced Protections
At the application level, all joint use systems (whether internal or provided by a third-party) should offer advanced protections against various attacks including:
Security tools are required for to enforce advanced protections of any online system, such as:
The suggestions in #1 and #2 may seem like a bit of tall order. Our idea is to use a platform (that includes all joint use process capabilities) that already has these standards in place.
Not merely a database, a platform consolidates joint use asset data, yet allows users to take action within the platform to store necessary data, and create communication with other joint use partners. The platform allows users to store and act on:
Platform technology provides a unified view of field assets, delivers the right data to each user in the context of his or her job, and can securely share specific, user-defined data with attachers, third-party contractors, and other key stakeholders. It keeps confidential data secure while streamlining necessary communications and coordination.
An asset management platform replaces multiple systems that may be insecure. The more systems in use, the greater the threat (especially when multiple systems are interconnected for daily operations). The more we can replace paper or email communications, which can be easily overlooked or overwhelming, platforms should be able to interface with other critical business applications such as GIS, work management systems (WMS), accounting, and tax systems. Joint use owners, attachers/renters, and other players can securely store and manage comprehensive joint use asset data.
In response to the constantly changing landscape of cyber threats, it is also critical to maintain continuous reviews of new attack measures, employ daily code reviews, and perform regular penetration testing. When any technology contains data that is tied into a utility’s enterprise systems, there is concern for security, and there is potential for cyber hackers to gain access. Security best practices should be applied to all layers in a technology stack.
Secure Data During the Rise of the IoT
The rapid growth of the Internet of Things means business and consumers are benefiting from greater efficiency, improved productivity, and access to data previously held in silos. The number of devices, technologies, and systems that connect to each other, the Internet, and the grid is increasing exponentially. Yet, as the IoT grows so does the number of threats. Comprehensive, advanced security measures must be in place for any data-sharing system.
Power, telecommunications, CATV, and broadband companies must work together to ensure the highest levels of security are in place. Technology that enables secure communication among joint use partners will help advance this goal. We work better when we work together.
To read the previous articles in this series, click the title below:
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Learn more about one joint use platform that ensures data security and streamlines joint use asset management.