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.
Related Stories
The Ranger Road Fire in the Oklahoma Panhandle is now 65% contained after burning nearly 300,000 acres over the past week. Kevin Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance Agency discusses wildfire recovery, livestock insurance considerations, and the importance of preparedness for producers across the Southern Plains.
Ag leaders say President Donald Trump’s State of the Union is unlikely to spark major agriculture headlines, but ongoing tariff uncertainty and trade policy remain key concerns, as does the debate around glyphosate and the status of the next Farm Bill.
Cotton jassid, a invasive pest, is raising concerns for Southeast cotton growers as experts work to understand its impact this season.
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
