ZAG Technical Services Emphasizes Need for Cybersecurity in Ag; Greg Gatzke Details
SAN JOSE, CA - Recent ransomware attacks on industry-leading ag businesses have showcased the need for cybersecurity awareness, and ZAG Technical Services is reminding produce providers to make a plan to check their tech to avoid such encounters.
“Cybersecurity is one of the greatest risks to modern agriculture and today’s food supply chain,” said Greg Gatzke, President. “As the most recent ransomware attack highlights, every area of business is impacted, not just that company’s bottom line, but also availability of product to the end consumer.”
Companies of all sizes and technical preparedness are at risk of ransomware attacks, a press release explained, and it often requires a major incident to raise the priority level of cybersecurity and planning among businesses.
“Even if you do everything right, smart criminals may still be able to find a weak spot in your network and if they do, they will exploit it. Defense is important, but a worthwhile cybersecurity plan includes detailed response and recovery plans as well,” added Gatzke.
The FBI has warned that the agriculture and food industry is at risk of cyber crimes, which recent data indicates is up over 31 percent. ZAG has shared that as the Industrial Internet of Things grows, every business faces more risk. Breakthroughs in the network of connected farm, packaging, warehousing, and office operations could put suppliers’ entire systems at risk, including negatively impacting partners and vendors.
“The best step in protection is being prepared not just for the attack, but for what comes after,” Gatzke concluded. “It costs far less to implement and maintain a technical service plan that includes a holistic approach to system maintenance and protection than solving a cybersecurity breach after it happens, as costs add up not just for technical resolution, but lost business and sales.”
Companies looking to protect themselves from these kinds of attacks should consult with specialists in information technology and cybersecurity to identify their risks and assess their needs, such as that of ZAG Technical Services.
As we continue to explore the importance of cybersecurity, keep following along here at ANUK.
