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Workforce Automation
Cloud Security Compliance Management Cybersecurity Data protection Digital Transformation Hybrid Work Network Safety Remote Work Technology Workforce Automation

Smart Devices Redefining Productivity in the Home Workspace


 

Remote working, once regarded as a rare privilege, has now become a key feature of today's professional landscape. Boardroom discussions and water-cooler chats have become much more obsolete, as organisations around the world continue to adapt to new work models shaped by technology and necessity, with virtual meetings and digital collaboration becoming more prevalent. 

It has become increasingly apparent that remote work is no longer a distant future vision but rather a reality that defines the professional world of today. There have been significant shifts in the way that organisations operate and how professionals communicate, perform and interact as a result of the dissolution of traditional workplace boundaries, giving rise to a new era of distributed teams, flexible schedules, and technology-driven collaboration. 

These changes, accelerated by global disruptions and evolving employee expectations, have led to a significant shift in the way organisations operate. Gallup has recently announced that over half of U.S. employees now work from home at least part of the time, a trend that is unlikely to wane anytime soon. There are countless reasons why this model is so popular, including its balance between productivity, autonomy, and accessibility, offering both employers and employees the option of redefining success in a way that goes beyond the confines of physical work environments. 

With the increasing popularity of remote and hybrid work, it is becoming ever more crucial for individuals to learn how to thrive in this environment, in which success increasingly depends on the choice and use of the right digital tools that will make it possible for them to maintain connection, efficiency, and growth in a borderless work environment. 

DigitalOcean Currents report from 2023 indicates that 39 per cent of companies operating entirely remotely now operate, while 23 per cent use a hybrid model with mandatory in-office days, and 2 per cent permit their employees to choose between remote working options. In contrast, about 14 per cent of these companies still maintain the traditional setup of an office, a small fraction of which is the traditional office setup. 

More than a location change, this dramatic shift marks the beginning of a transformation of how teams communicate, innovate, and remain connected across time zones and borders, which reflects an evolution in how teams communicate, innovate, and remain connected. With the blurring of the boundaries of the workplace, digital tools have been emerging as the backbone of this transformation, providing seamless collaboration between employees, ensuring organisational cohesion, and maximising productivity regardless of where they log in to the workplace. 

With today's distributed work culture, success depends not only on adaptability, but also on thoughtfully integrating technology that bridges distances with efficiency and purpose, in an era where flexibility is imperative, but it also depends on technology integration. As organisations continue to embrace remote and hybrid working models, maintaining compliance across diverse sites has become one of the most pressing operational challenges that organisations face today. 

Compliance management on a manual basis not only strains administrative efficiency but also exposes businesses to significant regulatory and financial risks. Human error remains an issue that persists today—whether it is overlooking state-specific labour laws, understating employees' hours, or misclassifying workers, with each mistake carrying a potential for fines, back taxes, or legal disputes as a result. In the absence of centralised systems, routine audits become time-consuming exercises that are plagued by inconsistent data and dispersed records. 

Almost all human resource departments face the challenge of ensuring that fair and consistent policy enforcement across dispersed teams is nearly impossible because of fragmented oversight and self-reported data. For organisations to overcome these challenges, automation and intelligent workforce management are increasingly being embraced by forward-looking organisations. Using advanced time-tracking platforms along with workforce analytics, employers can gain real-time visibility into employee activity, simplify audits, and improve compliance reporting accuracy. 

Businesses can not only reduce risks and administrative burdens by consolidating processes into a single, data-driven system but also increase employee transparency and trust by integrating these processes into one system. By utilising technology to manage remote teams effectively in the era of remote work, it becomes a strategic ally for maintaining operational integrity. 

Clear communication, structured organisation, and the appropriate technology must be employed when managing remote teams. When managing for the first time, defining roles, reporting procedures, and meeting schedules is an essential component of creating accountability and transparency among managers. 

Regular one-on-one and team meetings are essential for engaging employees and addressing challenges that might arise in a virtual environment. The adoption of remote work tools for collaboration, project tracking, and communication is on the rise among organisations as a means of streamlining workflows across time zones to ensure teams remain in alignment. Remote work has been growing in popularity because of its tangible benefits. 

Employees and businesses alike will save money on commuting, infrastructure, and operational expenses when using it. There is no need for daily travel, so professionals can devote more time to their families and themselves, enhancing work-life balance. Research has shown that remote workers usually have a higher level of productivity due to fewer interruptions and greater flexibility, and that they often log more productive hours. Additionally, this model has gained recognition for its ability to improve employee satisfaction as well as promote a healthy lifestyle. 

By utilising the latest developments in technology, such as real-time collaborations and secure data sharing, remote work continues to reshape traditional employment and is enabling an efficient, balanced, and globally connected workforce to be created. 

Building the Foundation for Remote Work Efficiency 


In today's increasingly digital business environment, making the right choice in terms of the hardware that employees use forms the cornerstone of an effective remote working environment. It will often make or break a company's productivity levels, communication performance, and overall employee satisfaction. Remote teams must be connected directly with each other using powerful laptops, seamless collaboration tools, and reliable devices that ensure that remote operations run smoothly. 

High-Performance Laptops for Modern Professionals 


Despite the fact that laptops remain the primary work instruments for remote employees, their specifications can have a significant impact on their efficiency levels during the course of the day. In addition to offering optimum performance, HP Elite Dragonfly, HP ZBook Studio, and HP Pavilion x360 are also equipped with versatile capabilities that appeal to business leaders as well as creative professionals alike. 

As the world continues to evolve, key features, such as 16GB or more RAM, the latest processors, high-quality webcams, high-quality microphones, and extended battery life, are no longer luxuries but rather necessities to keep professionals up-to-date in a virtual environment. Furthermore, enhanced security features as well as multiple connectivity ports make it possible for remote professionals to remain both productive and protected at the same time. 

Desktop Systems for Dedicated Home Offices


Professionals working from a fixed workspace can benefit greatly from desktop systems, as they offer superior performance and long-term value. HP Desktops are a great example of desktop computers that provide enterprise-grade computing power, better thermal management, and improved ergonomics. 

They are ideal for complex, resource-intensive tasks due to their flexibility, the ability to support multiple monitors, and their cost-effectiveness, which makes them a solid foundation for sustained productivity. 

Essential Peripherals and Accessories 


The entire remote setup does not only require core computing devices to be integrated, but it also requires thoughtfully integrating peripherals designed to increase productivity and comfort. High-resolution displays, such as HP's E27u G4 and HP's P24h G4, or high-resolution 4K displays, significantly improve eye strain and improve workflow. For professionals who spend long periods of time in front of screens, it is essential that they have monitors that are ergonomically adjustable, colour accurate, and have blue-light filtering. 

With reliable printing options such as HP OfficeJet Pro 9135e, LaserJet Pro 4001dn, and ENVY Inspire 7255e, home offices can manage their documents seamlessly. There is also the possibility of avoiding laptop overheating by using cooling pads, ergonomic stands, and proper maintenance tools, such as microfiber cloths and compressed air, which help maintain performance and equipment longevity. 

Data Management and Security Solutions 


It is crucial to understand that efficient data management is the key to remote productivity. Professionals utilise high-capacity flash drives, external SSDs, and secure cloud services to safeguard and manage their files. A number of tools and memory upgrades have improved the performance of workstations, making it possible to perform multiple tasks smoothly and retrieve data more quickly. 

Nevertheless, organisations are prioritising security measures like VPNs, encrypted communication and two-factor authentication in an effort to mitigate risks associated with remote connectivity, and in order to do so, they are investing more in these measures. 

Software Ecosystem for Seamless Collaboration  


There are several leading project management platforms in the world that facilitate coordinated workflows by offering features like task tracking, automated progress reports, and shared workspaces, which provide a framework for remote work. Although hardware creates the framework, software is the heart and soul of the remote work ecosystem. 

Numerous communication tools enable geographically dispersed teams to work together via instant messaging, video conferencing, and real-time collaboration, such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, and Google Meet. Secure cloud solutions, including Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Dropbox and Box, further simplify the process of sharing files while maintaining enterprise-grade security. 

Managing Distributed Teams Effectively 


A successful remote leadership experience cannot be achieved solely by technology; a successful remote management environment requires sound management practices that are consistent with clear communication protocols, defined performance metrics, and regular virtual check-ins. Through fostering collaboration, encouraging work-life balance, and integrating virtual team-building initiatives, distributed teams can build stronger relationships. 

The combination of these practices, along with continuous security audits and employee training, ensures that organisations keep not only their operational efficiency, but also trust and cohesion within their organisations, especially in an increasingly decentralised world in which organisations are facing increasing competition. It seems that the future of work depends on how organisations can seamlessly integrate technology into their day-to-day operations as the digital landscape continues to evolve. 

Smart devices, intelligent software, and connected ecosystems are no longer optional, they are the lifelines of modern productivity and are no longer optional. The purchase of high-quality hardware and reliable digital tools by remote professionals goes beyond mere convenience; it is a strategic step towards sustaining focus, creativity, and collaboration in an ever-changing environment by remote professionals.

Leadership, on the other hand, must always maintain trust, engagement, and a positive mental environment within their teams to maximise their performance. Remote working will continue to grow in popularity as the next phase of success lies in striking a balance between technology and human connection, efficiency and empathy, flexibility and accountability, and innovation potential. 

With the advancement of digital infrastructure and the adoption of smarter, more adaptive workflows by organisations across the globe, we are on the verge of an innovative, resilient, and inclusive future for the global workforce. This future will not be shaped by geographical location, but rather by the intelligent use of tools that will enable people to perform at their best regardless of their location.
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Regulatory Compliance
Cloud Services cybersecurity risks Data protection Data Sharing Digital Transformation Privacy Privacy Regulations Regulatory Compliance

EU Data Act Compliance Deadline Nears With Three Critical Takeaways


 

A decisive step forward in shaping the future of Europe's digital economy has been taken by the regulation of harmonised rules for fair access to and use of data, commonly known as the EU Data Act, which has moved from a legislative text to a binding document. 

The regulation was first adopted into force on the 11th of January 2024 and came into full effect on the 12th of September 2025, and is regarded as the foundation for the EU’s broader data strategy. Its policymakers believe that this is crucial to the Digital Decade's goal of accelerating digital transformation across industries by ensuring that the data generated within the EU can be shared, accessed, and used more equitably, as a cornerstone of the Digital Decade's ambition. 

The Data Act is not only a technical framework for creating a more equitable digital landscape, but it is also meant to rebalance the balance of power in the digital world, giving rise to new opportunities for innovation while maintaining the integrity of the information. With the implementation of the Data Act in place from 12 September 2025, the regulatory landscape will be dramatically transformed for companies that deal with connected products, digital services, or cloud or other data processing solutions within the European Union, regardless of whether the providers are located within its borders or beyond. 

It seems that businesses were underestimating the scope of the regime before it was enforced, but as a result, the law sets forth a profound set of obligations that go well beyond what was previously known. In essence, this regulation grants digital device and service users unprecedented access rights to the data they generate, regardless of whether that data is personal or otherwise. Until recently, the rights were mostly unregulated, which meant users had unmatched access to data. 

The manufacturer, service provider, and data owner will have to revise existing contractual arrangements in order to comply with this regulation. This will be done by creating a framework for data sharing on fair and transparent terms, as well as ensuring that extensive user entitlements are in place. 

It also imposes new obligations on cloud and processing service providers, requiring them to provide standardised contractual provisions that allow for switching between services. A violation of these requirements will result in a regulatory investigation, civil action, or significant financial penalties, which is the same as a stringent enforcement model used by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which has already changed the way data practices are handled around the world today. 

According to the EU Data Act, the intention is to revolutionise the way information generated by connected devices and cloud-based services is accessed, managed and exchanged within and across the European Union. In addition to establishing clear rules for access to data, the regulations incorporate obligations to guarantee organisations' service portability, and they embed principles of contractual fairness into business agreements as a result. 

The legislation may have profound long-term consequences, according to industry observers. It is not possible to ignore the impact that the law could have on the digital economy, as Soniya Bopache, vice president and general manager for data compliance at Arctera, pointed out, and she expected that the law would change the dynamics of the use and governance of data for a long time to come. 

It is important to note that the EU Data Act has a broader scope than the technology sector, with implications for industries that include manufacturing, transportation, consumer goods, and cloud computing in addition to the technology sector. Additionally, the regulation is expected to benefit both public and private institutions, emphasising how the regulation has a broad impact. 

Cohesity's vice president and head of technology, Peter Grimmond, commented on the law's potential by suggesting that, by democratising and allowing greater access to data, the law could act as a catalyst for innovation. It was suggested that organisations that already maintain strong compliance and classification procedures will benefit from the Act because it will provide an environment where collaboration can thrive without compromising individual rights or resilience. 

Towards the end of the EU regulation, the concept of data access and transparency was framed as a way to strengthen Europe's data economy and increase competitiveness in the market, according to EU policymakers. It is becoming increasingly evident that connected devices generate unprecedented amounts of information. 

As a result of this legislation, businesses and individuals alike are able to use this data more effectively by granting greater control over the information they produce, which is of great importance to businesses and individuals alike. Additionally, Grimmond said that the new frameworks for data sharing between enterprises are an important driver of long-term benefits for the development of new products, services, and business models, and they will contribute to the long-term development of the economy. 

There is also an important point to be made, which is that the law aims to achieve a balance between the openness of the law and the protected standards that Europe has established, aligned with GDPR's global privacy benchmark, and complementing the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), so that the levels of trust and security are maintained. 

In some ways, the EU Data Act will prove to be even more disruptive than the EU Artificial Intelligence Act, as it will be the most significant overhaul of European data laws since the GDPR and will have a fundamental effect on how businesses handle information collected by connected devices and digital services in the future. 

Essentially, the Regulation is a broad-reaching law that covers both personal data about individuals as well as non-personal data, such as technical and usage information that pertains to virtually every business model associated with digital products and services within the European Union. This law creates new sweeping rights for users, who are entitled to access to the data generated by their connected devices at any time, including real-time, where it is technically feasible, as per Articles 4 and 5. 

Additionally, these rights allow users to determine who else may access such data, whether it be repairers, aftermarket service providers, or even direct competitors, while allowing users to limit how such data is distributed by companies. During the years 2026 and 2030, manufacturers will be required to make sure that products have built-in data accessibility at no extra charge, which will force companies to reconsider their product development cycles, IT infrastructure, and customer contracts in light of this requirement. 

Moreover, the legislation provides guidelines for fair data sharing and stipulates that businesses are required to provide access on reasonable, non-discriminatory terms, and prohibits businesses from stating terms in their contracts that impede or overcharge for access in a way that obstructs it. As a result of this, providers of cloud computing and data processing services face the same transformative obligations as other companies, such as mandatory provisions that allow customers to switch services within 30 days, prohibit excessive exit fees, and insist that contracts be transparent so vendors won't get locked into contracts. 

There are several ways in which these measures could transform fixed-term service contracts into rolling, short-term contracts, which could dramatically alter the business model and competitive dynamics in the cloud industry. The regulation also gives local authorities the right to request data access in cases of emergency or when the public interest requires it, extending its scope beyond purely commercial applications. 

In all Member States, enforcement will be entrusted to national authorities who will be able to impose large fines for non-compliance, as well as provide a new path for collective civil litigation, opening doors to the possibility of mass legal actions similar to class actions in the US. Likely, businesses from a broad range of industries, from repair shops to insurers to logistics providers to AI developers, will all be able to benefit from greater access to operational data. 

In the meantime, sectors such as the energy industry, healthcare, agriculture, and transportation need to be prepared to respond to potential government requests. In total, the Data Act constitutes an important landmark law that rebalances power between companies and users, while redrawing the competitive landscape for Europe's digital economy in the process. In the wake of the EU Data Act's compliance deadline, it will not simply be viewed as a regulatory milestone, but also as a strategic turning point for the digital economy as a whole. 

Business owners must now shift from seeing compliance as an obligation to a means of increasing competitiveness, improving customer trust, and unlocking new value through data-driven innovation to strengthen their competitiveness and deepen customer relationships. In the future, businesses that take proactive steps towards redesigning their products, modernising their IT infrastructure, and cultivating transparent data practices are better positioned to stay ahead of the curve and develop stronger relationships with their users, for whom information is now more in their control. 

Aside from that, the regulation has the potential to accelerate the pace of digital innovation across a wide range of sectors by lowering barriers to switching providers and enforcing fairer contractual standards, stimulating a more dynamic and collaborative marketplace. This Act provides the foundation for a robust public-interest data use system in times of need for governments and regulators. 

In the end, the success of this ambitious framework will rest on how quickly the business world adapts and how effective its methods are at developing a fairer, more transparent, and more competitive European data economy, which can be used as a global benchmark in the future.
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Vulnerabilities
Cyber CyberCrime Cybersecurity CyberThreat Data Breach Digital Transformation Mark&Spencer Ransomware Breach Social Engineering Vulnerabilities

Social Engineering Identified as Catalyst for M&S Ransomware Breach

 


Marks & Spencer (M&S), one of the largest and most established retailers in the United Kingdom, has confirmed that a highly targeted social engineering operation triggered the ransomware attack in April 2025. This breach, which is associated with DragonForce ransomware, points to a disturbing trend in the cybersecurity landscape, namely that human manipulations are increasingly becoming a way to access large-scale digital networks.

Several preliminary findings suggest that the attackers deceived individuals within or connected to the organisation, possibly by posing as trusted employees or partners, to gain unauthorised access to M&S's internal systems. Once they gained access, the attackers deployed ransomware that crippled the organisation's operations and led to the theft of approximately 150 GB of sensitive information.

It is important to note that not only did the attack disrupt critical business functions, but it also exposed the weakness in the company's dependence on third-party vendors, whose vulnerabilities may have contributed to the intrusion. While the company is actively regaining control of its infrastructure as a result of the breach, the incident is a clear warning to organisations across many sectors about the growing threat of social engineering as well as the urgent need for more robust human-centred cybersecurity defences to protect against it.

A public hearing was held on July 8, held at Parliament, in which Archie Norman, Chairman of Marks & Spencer (M&S), gave further insight into the cyberattack in April 2025 that disrupted the retailer's operations. Norman acknowledged that the incident was indeed a ransomware attack, but he declined to divulge whether the company had negotiated anything with the threat actors involved or negotiated a financial settlement. 

According to Norman, who addressed the Business and Trade Sub-Committee on Economic Security, Arms and Export Controls at the UK Parliament, the experience was one of the most disruptive and complex crises he had experienced in his considerable career in business and retail before this one.

As part of the presentation, he stressed the severity and unprecedented nature of the attack that, as it has been discovered, was carried out by the Scattered Spider cyber criminal collective, which is well known for attacking major corporations using DragonForce ransomware infrastructure as a means of extortion and ransom.

It is clear from Norman's testimony that cybercriminal groups have become more bold and technically sophisticated over the last few years, particularly those that employ social engineering as a way to circumvent protocols of conventional security and bypass them.

Aside from acknowledging the considerable operational challenges the company faced in responding to the incident, the chairman pointed out that businesses must strengthen their digital resilience and make themselves more resilient in a rapidly evolving threat landscape, which is difficult to predict. Even though Archie Norman did not disclose specific details about the operation, he did reveal that initially, the attackers were successful in gaining access by exploiting the impersonation scheme devised by an expert security expert.

According to him, the threat actors posed as some of the approximately 50,000 Marks & Spencer employees and successfully deceived a third-party service provider into resetting a legitimate employee's password after posing as one of these employees. As a result of the attackers' seemingly simple deception, they were able to bypass identity verification protocols and gain unauthorised access to the retailer's internal systems, resulting in the attackers gaining access to the retailer's internal network.

In addition, the tactic represents a growing trend in cybercrime in which attackers exploit the trust that large, distributed organisations place in their internal and external vendors to gain access to their networks. The perpetrators were able to manipulate routine IT processes, such as password resets, and then move laterally within the network, setting the stage for a wider deployment of ransomware.

There is an important lesson to be learned from the incident regarding the importance of stringent verification procedures when working with external partners who can become weak links in your security chain, particularly when engaging with external partners. As reported in the Financial Times in May, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) allegedly initiated an internal investigation to determine whether the company unknowingly played a role in the cyberattack on Marks & Spencer by facilitating the cyberattack.

In the case of TCS, which provides M&S's help desk support, it has been suspected that the threat actors have manipulated the company into resetting the password of an employee, enabling the attackers to gain access to the retailer's internal network. The threat actors are alleged to have done this through the manipulation of TCS. This potential compromise highlights the broader risks associated with outsourcing IT operations and the increasing reliance on third parties to handle critical business functions, as well. 

As a first step towards the resolution of the breach, M&S has publicly identified the DragonForce ransomware infrastructure as how the attack was carried out, revealing that the perpetrators are suspected of operating from Asia. The acknowledgement comes as the company continues to recover, witha phased return to its online retail services being phased in.

 With the introduction of limited home delivery options on June 10, M&S has made it possible for select fashion products to be delivered to customers across England, Wales, and Scotland. Currently, the service is only available to customers in England, Wales, and Scotland. As part of its commitment to managing operational strain and ensuring service reliability, M&S has temporarily extended its standard delivery window to 10 days to ensure service reliability.

 In terms of customer impact, M&S confirmed that certain personal data was compromised during the breach, but that click-and-collect services, which are still suspended as part of the recovery process following the attack, will also be reinstated shortly. As a matter of fact, M&S confirmed that certain personal data had been compromised. Among the information exposed are names, home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, dates of birth, and information about online orders, which is often exposed.

Despite this, the company has assured the public that no usable information, such as payment information, credit card numbers, or passwords, has been compromised. As a precautionary measure, M&S will ask customers to reset their passwords to ensure that their personal information remains safe. Customers are advised to remain vigilant to be aware of possible phishing attempts or fraudulent activity involving their personal information.

While speculation continues to abound on the possible financial resolution of the ransomware attack, Marks & Spencer has chosen not to disclose whether they have made a ransom payment in the first place. Chairman Archie Norman's testimony made reference to professional ransomware negotiation firms in his testimony. These firms, which are usually specialised intermediaries that assist victim organisations to engage threat actors and facilitate cryptocurrency payments, typically using Bitcoin, are often used by these firms to help victims resolve these threats.

In response to a direct question regarding whether M&S had met the ransom demand, Norman declined to provide a definitive answer. He stated that the company had "not discussed those details publicly" as they believed it was not in the public interest to do so. However, he emphasised that the National Crime Agency (NCA) and other law enforcement authorities had been notified of the full extent of the investigation.

Many experts on the subject of cybersecurity warn that ransomware groups rarely cease extortion efforts without compensation. Because the stolen data has not yet been disclosed publicly, experts believe a ransom might have been paid quietly or negotiations may still be ongoing with the attackers.

Regardless of the outcome of the M&S breach, it serves as a sobering reminder that cybersecurity failures have evolved beyond technical vulnerabilities and are now a result of failures across people, processes, and technological safeguards as well. Despite the rapid evolution of the threat environment in today's world, traditional security tools such as antivirus software are no longer sufficient to deal with the growing number of malware groups that are becoming increasingly agile.

It is imperative that businesses adopt adaptive security architectures that are policy-driven and capable of detecting and neutralising threats before they escalate. In light of the M&S incident, there is an urgent need to develop an approach to cyber resilience that anticipates human error, strengthens digital ecosystems, and minimises the operational and reputational costs associated with an attack.

 In this era of cyber-threats, an incident such as Marks & Spencer's ransomware is often referred to as a case study since it exemplifies how human nature has become as vital as technological defences in combating cyber-attacks.

In an era where organisations are accelerating their digital transformation and increasingly relying on distributed teams, cloud infrastructure, and third-party vendors, this attack reinforces the importance of implementing an integrated cybersecurity strategy that focuses on more than just system hardening; it also emphasises employee awareness, vendor accountability, and continuous risk management.

The most effective way for a company to protect itself is to adopt a proactive, intelligence-driven security posture rather than a reactive, reactive approach; to embed cybersecurity into every aspect of the business, governance, and culture. The deployment of behavioural analytics, third-party audits of identities, and enhancement of identity verifications are no longer optional components of modern cybersecurity frameworks, but rather essential components.

 In the face of increasing threats that are both swift and complex, resilience is not only a one-time fix but a continuous discipline that must be engineered. The M&S breach is more than just a cautionary tale. It is a call to action for enterprises to redesign their security strategies so that they can remain competitive, agile, and forward-thinking.

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Operational Technology
Canada oil and gas sector Canadian Centre for Cyber Security Cyber Attacks Cybersecurity Threats Digital Transformation Operational Technology

Canada’s Oil and Gas Sector Faces Rising Cybersecurity Threats Amid Digital Transformation

 

Canada’s oil and gas sector, a vital part of its economy, contributes approximately $120 billion, or about 5% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This industry not only drives economic growth but also supports essential services such as heating, transportation, and electricity generation, playing a crucial role in national security. However, the increasing digital transformation of Operational Technology (OT) within this sector has made it more vulnerable to cyber threats, according to a report by the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security.

A survey conducted by Statistics Canada revealed that around 25% of all Canadian oil and gas organizations reported experiencing a cyber incident in 2019. This is the highest rate of reported incidents among all critical infrastructure sectors, highlighting the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures in Canada. While the digital transformation of OT systems enhances management and productivity, it also expands the attack surface for cyber actors, exposing these systems to various cyber threats.

The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security's report indicates that medium- to high-sophistication cyber threat actors are increasingly targeting organizations indirectly through their supply chains. This tactic enables attackers to gain valuable intellectual property and information about the target organization’s networks and OT systems. The reliance of large industrial asset operators on a diverse supply chain—including laboratories, manufacturers, vendors, and service providers—creates critical vulnerabilities that cyber actors can exploit to access otherwise protected IT and OT systems.

The report emphasizes that cybercriminals driven by financial gain pose the most significant threat to the oil and gas sector. Business Email Compromise (BEC) schemes and ransomware attacks are particularly prevalent. Although BEC is more common and costly, ransomware remains a primary concern due to its potential to disrupt the supply of oil and gas to customers.

The evolving cybercriminal ecosystem, including ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) models, allows even less skilled attackers to launch sophisticated attacks, resulting in an increase in successful incidents targeting the sector. The report cites the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack in May 2021 as a stark example of the potential consequences of such cyber incidents. This attack forced the shutdown of a major fuel pipeline in the U.S., leading to significant disruptions, panic buying, and price spikes. Similar incidents could occur in Canada, jeopardizing the supply of essential products and services.

Financial Implications of Data Breaches

The report also highlights the financial implications of cyber threats. The cost of a data breach can vary significantly, with estimates suggesting it can reach millions of dollars depending on the organization's size and nature. The potential for disruption or sabotage of OT systems poses a costly threat to owner-operators of large OT assets, impacting national security, public safety, and the economy.

The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security notes that the oil and gas sector attracts considerable attention from financially motivated cyber threat actors due to the high value of its assets. Cybercriminals target not only operational systems but also valuable intellectual property, business plans, and client information. Protecting these assets is crucial, as the disruption of operations could have far-reaching consequences.

In light of these threats, the report urges organizations within the oil and gas sector to prioritize cybersecurity investments and adopt a proactive approach to risk management. Continuous training and awareness programs for employees are essential to mitigate risks associated with human error, a significant factor in successful cyber attacks.

The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security stresses the need for collaboration between public and private sectors to combat cyber threats effectively. By sharing information and best practices, organizations can better prepare for and respond to cyber incidents.

Overall, the findings from the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security highlight the pressing need for enhanced cybersecurity measures within Canada’s oil and gas sector. With cyber threats on the rise, it is imperative for organizations to take proactive steps to safeguard their operations and ensure the resilience of this critical infrastructure. The time to act is now, as the stakes have never been higher in the fight against cybercrime
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Technology
CFO Dive ChatGPT Cyberattacks Cyberdata Cybersecurity CyberThreat Digital Transformation Shadow IT Technology

Shadow IT Surge Poses Growing Threat to Corporate Data Security

 


It was recently found that 93% of cybersecurity leaders have deployed generative artificial intelligence in their organizations, yet 34% of those implementing the technology have not taken steps to minimize security risks, according to a recent survey conducted by cybersecurity firm Splunk, which was previously reported by CFO Dive. 

In the coming years, digital transformation and cloud migration will become increasingly commonplace in every sector of the economy, raising the amount of data businesses must store, process and manage, as well as the amount of data they must manage. Even though external threats such as hacking, phishing, and ransomware are given a great deal of attention, it is equally critical for companies to manage their data internally to ensure data security is maintained. 

In an organization, shadow data is information that is not approved by the organization or overseen by it. An employee's use of applications, services, or devices that their employer has not approved can be considered a feature (or a bug?) of the modern workplace. Whether it is a cloud storage account, an unofficial collaboration tool, or an unsanctioned SaaS application, shadow data can be generated from a variety of sources. 

In general, shadow data is not accounted for in the security and compliance frameworks of organizations, which leaves a glaring blind spot in data protection strategies, which is why it poses the biggest challenge. A report by Splunk says, “Such thoughtful policies can help minimize data leakage and new vulnerabilities, but they cannot necessarily prevent a complete breach.” However, they can help minimize these risks. 

According to the study by Cyberhaven, AI adoption has been so rapid that knowledge workers are now putting more corporate data into AI tools on a Saturday and Sunday than they were putting into the AI tools during the middle of last year's workweek on average. This could mean that workers are using AI tools early on in the adoption cycle, even before the IT department is formally instructed to purchase them. 

The result would be the so-called 'shadow AI,' or the use of AI tools by employees through their accounts that are not sanctioned by the company, and maybe no one is even aware of it. Using AI in the workplace is gaining traction. The amount of corporate data workers are putting into AI tools has jumped by 485% from March 2023 to March 2024, and the trend is accelerating. There are 23.6% of tech workers in March 2024 who use AI tools for their work (the highest rate of any industry). 

It is estimated that only 4.7% of employees in the financial sector, 2.8% in the pharmaceuticals industry, and 0.6% in manufacturing industries use AI tools. The use of risky "shadow AI" accounts is growing as end users outpace corporate IT. There are 73.8% of ChatGPT users who use the application through non-corporate accounts. 

However, unlike enterprise versions of ChatGPT, the enterprise versions incorporate whatever information you share in public models as well. According to the data, the percentage of non-corporate accounts is even higher for Gemini (94.4%) and Bard (95.9%). AI products from the big three: OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft accounted for 96.0% of AI use at work. Research and development materials created by artificial intelligence-generated tools have been used in potentially risky ways currently. 

In March 2024, 3.4% of the materials were created by artificial intelligence-generated tools, which could potentially create a risk if patented materials were included. As a result, 3.2% of the insertions of source code are being generated by AI outside of traditional coding tools (which are equipped with enterprise-approved copilots for coding), which can potentially place the development of vulnerabilities at risk. 

In terms of graphics and design, 3.0% of the content is generated using AI. The problem here is that AI can be used to produce trademarked material which can pose a problem. IT administrators, security teams, and the protocols that are designed to ensure security are unable to see shadow data due to its invisibility. The fact that shadow data exists outside of the networks and systems that have been approved for data protection means that it can be bypassed easily by any protection measures put in place. 

The risk of a breach or leak when data is left unmonitored increases and does not only complicate compliance with regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA but also makes compliance with data protection laws harder. As such, an organization is not able to effectively manage all of its data assets due to an absence of visibility, resulting in a loss of efficiency and a risk of data redundancy. Shadow data poses various security risks, which include unauthorized access to sensitive data, breaches in data security, and the potential for sensitive information to be exfiltrated. 

Shadow data can be a threat from a compliance standpoint because it only requires a minimal amount of protection from inadequacies in data security. Furthermore, there is an additional risk of data loss when data is stored in unofficial locations, since such personal data may not be backed up or protected against deletion if it is accidentally deleted. The surge in Shadow IT poses significant risks to organizations, with potential repercussions that include financial penalties, reputational damage, and operational disruptions. 

It is crucial to understand the distinctions between Shadow IT and Shadow Data to effectively address these threats. Shadow IT refers to the unauthorized use of tools and technologies within an organization. These tools, often implemented without the knowledge or approval of the IT department, can create substantial security and compliance challenges. Conversely, shadow data pertains to the information assets that these unauthorized tools generate and manage.

This data, regardless of its source or storage location, introduces its own set of risks and requires separate strategies for protection. Addressing Shadow IT necessitates robust control and monitoring mechanisms to manage the use of unauthorized technologies. This involves implementing policies and systems to detect and regulate non-sanctioned IT tools, ensuring that all technological resources align with the organization's security and compliance standards. 

On the other hand, managing shadow data requires a focus on identifying and safeguarding the data itself. This involves comprehensive data governance practices that protect sensitive information, ensuring it is secure, regardless of how it is created or stored. Effective management of shadow data demands a thorough understanding of where this data resides, how it is accessed, and the potential vulnerabilities it may introduce. Recognizing the nuanced differences between Shadow IT and Shadow Data is essential for developing effective governance and security strategies. 

By clearly delineating between the tools and the data they produce, organizations can better tailor their approaches to mitigate the risks associated with each. This distinction allows for more targeted and efficient protection measures, ultimately enhancing the organization's overall security posture and compliance efforts.
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