An Uptick in Cyber Attacks
Public safety agencies have become increasingly targeted by cyber-attacks in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue in the future. Cyber-attacks can take many different forms, including ransomware attacks, denial-of-service attacks, and data breaches, and they can have serious consequences for public safety agencies and the communities they serve.
From January to September 2023, public safety organizations faced more cyber attacks than in the entire year of 2022, with at least a 10% increase. A significant portion of these attacks targeted 911 centers and computer-aided dispatch systems.
In 2023, multiple U.S. cities experienced severe disruptions due to ransomware attacks and denial-of-service attacks
A Tangled Web of Connections
It is important to consider cybersecurity when purchasing a logging recorder for public safety because the recorder is often connected to many other aspects of a network. For example, a logging recorder may be connected to other public safety systems such as Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), Call Handling Equipment (CHE), IP phones or radios, and other communication systems. In addition, logging recorders may be connected to the internet or other networks, which can increase the risk of cybersecurity threats.
“A vulnerability in the logging recorder could have serious consequences for the entire public safety system.”
When a logging recorder is connected to multiple aspects of a network, it can provide a potential entry point for cyber attackers to access other systems on the network. This means that a vulnerability in the logging recorder could have serious consequences for the entire public safety system.
This is an important reason why CISA includes patching and applying software updates as part of their messaging during Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
- A 2023 study found nearly 60% of public safety organizations do not patch systems regularly
- CISA’s 2023 report found that regular patching is one of the most effective measures to protect against cyber threats
Tips for software patches and system updates:
- Establish policies for applying patches and software updates
- Test any patches or updates BEFORE deploying in controlled environments
- Make sure you understand your vendors, including logging recorders patching and update policies before integrating them into your systems
It’s also a good reminder that emerging technologies, such as cloud-native solutions allow for efficient updates to be deployed, providing for more reliable availability and taking away the issues of downtime that would normally be required to deploy feature updates.
Cloud providers also offer robust security features and best practices that can be leveraged by cloud-native applications. Additionally, microservices architecture can limit the attack surface and potential damage if a breach occurs.
Essential Cybersecurity Measures
To protect these vital systems, it is crucial to implement robust cybersecurity measures to ensure that the logging recorder is secured properly, and that appropriate cybersecurity measures are in place to protect it from cyber attacks. This includes regular security updates, firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and data encryption. Ensuring that logging recorders are secured properly helps mitigate risks and safeguard sensitive information.
Proactive Approach
By taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity, logging recorder companies and public safety organizations can work together to help ensure that they are protected against cyber threats, and that sensitive information remains secure.
This involves working closely with logging recorder vendors to ensure that cybersecurity is integrated into the design and development of the recorders. Regular vulnerability assessments, attack surface management, regular cyber awareness training, and strong cyber policies are essential to identify and address potential threats.
Making cybersecurity a priority allows public safety organizations to ensure the integrity and reliability of their call logging recorders, ultimately enhancing the safety and security of the communities they serve.
