Fortify your network against cyberthreats with 5G.

As energy grids become more advanced, more devices—such as smart meters, air quality sensors, and lighting controls—are being integrated into the already vast ecosystem. As more devices are added to the grid, managing them can become overwhelming and complex.

Cyberattacks are already on the rise in the utilities industry. These attacks threaten the security of company and customer data and can lead to costly disruptions and, potentially, even regulatory fines.

The number of devices connected to the grid is increasing, and ensuring that each of them remains safe from cyberthreats can be a daunting challenge. With 5G, utility companies can efficiently manage security and improve their overall reliability.
 

Enhanced security: Implementing advanced security measures can safeguard sensitive data and prevent disruptions caused by cyberthreats, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery and maintaining customer satisfaction.
 

Compliance: Robust security protocols help companies comply with regulatory requirements and avoid penalties.
 

Simplified security management: Advanced security solutions like SASE make it easier to manage multiple devices and streamline access to critical apps and data for authorized users.

Leveraging cutting-edge technologies is essential for utility companies to bolster their cybersecurity defenses and safeguard critical infrastructure.

 

Secure Access Service Edge: SASE provides secure remote access for utility field workers, improving network security and performance while simplifying management. SIM authentication solutions like T-SIMsecure offer increased control over identity and access management, ensuring only authorized workers can use the necessary devices.

 

Edge computing: By processing data closer to its source, edge computing reduces the amount of data transmitted over the network, minimizing vulnerability to cyberthreats and enhancing overall cybersecurity.

 

Network slicing: With 5G network slicing, utility companies can segment their networks into virtual partitions. Each slice can have tailored protections to defend against potential cyberattacks and ensure the integrity of critical infrastructure and sensitive information.

In today’s interconnected world, ensuring the security of critical infrastructure is paramount. However, the rapid digitization of utility grids has exposed organizations to various cyberthreats, jeopardizing utilities’ continuous operation and integrity. Companies that don’t take the proper precautions not only risk exposing sensitive information but also open themselves up to potential industry fines.

For example, a utility company’s employees need access to critical IoT devices and sensors to analyze data and inform decisions about power generation. These devices are susceptible to malware attacks, which increased 400% in the first half of 2023 compared to 2022.² Leaving IoT devices vulnerable to unauthorized access can lead to significant data breaches and even a disruption in service.

With a SIM-based authentication solution like SASE, the company can ensure secure access to IoT devices and sensors and protect against potential cyberthreats. The automatic authentication provides an additional layer of security, safeguarding critical infrastructure and ensuring the uninterrupted operation of the utility grid.

 

By consolidating security functions into a unified platform, the company can streamline security policies and procedures, reducing complexity and improving overall security. This streamlined approach allows the company to allocate resources more efficiently, focus on strategic initiatives, and adapt quickly to evolving security threats.

Enhanced security measures protect critical infrastructure from cyberattacks, ensuring continuous operation and safeguarding customer data. By meeting stringent security standards, companies avoid legal issues, maintain regulatory compliance, and uphold their commitment to reliability and trustworthiness.