New Study Outlines Key Security Strategies for Protecting Water Distribution Networks; ISC East Features Education on Critical Infrastructure Safety
With remote monitoring technology transforming water distribution management, utilities gain real-time data that boosts efficiency and resilience. However, these systems—critical to public health and safety—also introduce risks that could impact service delivery and data security. A new study in Engineering Science & Technology Journal (ES&TJ) highlights key challenges and offers strategies to mitigate these risks.
At ISC East, kicking off on Nov. 20 at the Javits Center in New York City, critical infrastructure security, and the companies that provide the products and expertise to ensure it, will take center stage—literally. In addition to a dedicated area for products, technology and companies involved in securing critical infrastructure, two special hour-long sessions on The Bridge Stage, at the heart of the expo floor, will expose ISC East attendees to a range of emerging solutions. Critical Infrastructure: Reframing Problems, Revolutionizing Solutions comprises two 60-minute whiparounds featuring seven companies at the forefront of critical infrastructure technology and solutions.
The remote monitoring systems explored in the ES&TJ research are susceptible to attacks, that can disrupt operations and compromise data integrity in the systems that deliver our drinking water. Integrating these technologies with legacy infrastructure often introduces additional vulnerabilities. Utilities face heightened risks if security isn’t prioritized in systems that combine old and new technologies. The vast amount of data generated by these systems raises concerns over data security, privacy, and unauthorized access, especially as many utilities lack sufficient financial and technical resources to manage these risks effectively.
The study identifies eight core principles to guide utilities in protecting their networks and data from cyber threats:
Defense in Depth – Layer multiple security measures, from physical safeguards to data encryption, to ensure redundancy.
Least Privilege – Limit user access strictly to necessary functions, minimizing the potential impact of breaches.
Segmentation and Isolation – Create separate network zones to prevent attackers from moving laterally across systems.
Continuous Monitoring and Response – Implement ongoing surveillance and a proactive response plan to quickly detect and address threats.
Security by Design – Integrate security measures early in system development to create more resilient solutions.
Scalability and Flexibility – Ensure security systems can adapt to changing network sizes and evolving threats.
Sustainability and Maintainability – Use energy-efficient, easy-to-update solutions for long-term protection.
Stakeholder Engagement and Training – Regularly educate operators and stakeholders on security best practices and threat trends.
Implementing these principles allows utilities to strengthen their security posture and ensure uninterrupted service, according to the research. The study authors say continuous training and engagement are essential to maintaining a secure water distribution network.