Ongoing concern for cybersecurity in farm businesses

Cybersecurity in the agricultural sector is not just a matter of protecting data, but a critical component of ensuring the security and resilience of Canada’s food systems. According to Janos Botschner, who leads the Community Safety Knowledge Alliance, the agri-food sector is a vital part of the country’s infrastructure, and any disruptions can have far-reaching consequences.

At a recent event in Guelph, experts discussed the importance of collaborative support in implementing cybersecurity measures in agriculture. Botschner emphasized the need for a collective effort to address technical, engineering, and human aspects of cybersecurity in farming.

Greg Wootton, from OMAFRA, highlighted the economic and public trust costs associated with cyberattacks in the agri-food sector. As cybercriminals become more sophisticated, the vulnerability of Ontario and Canada’s food systems increases, leading to potential erosion of consumer trust.

Katherine MacDonald, from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, shared statistics indicating the impact of cyber incidents on Canadian businesses, with a small percentage affecting the agriculture sector. She stressed the importance of preparedness and awareness among producers to mitigate the risks of cyberattacks.

Experts like Ali Dehghantanha, from the University of Guelph, underscored the need for greater investment incentives and collaboration to enhance cybersecurity in the agri-food sector. As the threat of cyberattacks looms, proactive measures and support from all stakeholders are crucial to safeguarding the integrity of Canada’s food systems.