Why are farms especially vulnerable to cyber attacks?

Agriculture was the seventh most targeted industry for ransomware attacks in 2023. It is a topic researchers at Purdue University have been watching closely.

They warn risks are becoming greater, potentially impacting supply chains and financial security. Economists say farms are especially vulnerable because there is not a lot of IT investment. There is also a lack of training, with many agribusiness employees unaware attacks are happening.

They suggest having employee trainings and performing equipment upgrades as needed, including firewalls and encryption tools.

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“These regulations, what we’re doing and what it does it just adds cost and burdens to our ag producers as they’re trying to feed, fuel and clothe the world.”
“What we’ve seen over the years is a real lack of proper management of those resources!”