Why Cybersecurity Matters in the Three Key Stages of Construction?

The three key stages in the construction industry (design, construction and handover) all involve extensive digital workflows, so all of them are at risk. Everything from the computers, phones, to the essential software used to process and store information, to sophisticated site equipment and digital-based systems installed within buildings. And of course, throughout the entire construction process, you’ll need to manage and protect your business information (including client, staff, and project information).

The early stages of the construction process, such as the tender process, will generate for example, detailed quotes and signed contracts. A cyber attack at this stage might prevent a business from being able to win current tenders for work, and impact on future opportunities.

By implementing Cybersecurity with our guidance in this article, your business will be in a more secure and resilient position against cyber attacks.

Securing Stage #1: The Design Stage

The design stage is the process of developing the project brief so the building can be constructed. Much of this stage is carried out digitally, and you probably use a wide variety of different software tools during the design process.

It’s really important to make sure that the software is always kept up to date. Applying these updates (a process known as patching) is one of the most important things you can do to improve cyber security. On some projects, you may join or create a Common Data Environment (CDE) with other businesses. These environments include large amounts of project information with access given to third parties.

Payoda's Identity and access management services can help you control who can (and who can’t) access your data. You should also implement a ‘need to know’ process, where access is only granted for the information that is required for that task, and ensure staff are removed when they leave the project or business.

Securing Stage #2: The Construction Stage

Compared to the design stage, activities during the construction stage usually require a larger workforce, more materials and equipment, and more interaction with third parties. As the complexity and scale of a project ramps up during construction, businesses will naturally focus on project deliverables and deadlines. It’s important that security is not overlooked at this stage of the project.

The use of high-tech equipment to survey buildings or sites is becoming increasingly common. These drones and GPS equipment can create detailed models and visualizations with the data and information, and can be a target for attackers.

You should also consider what personal data is stored on a construction site. For example, details of individuals and their emergency contacts, biometric data, and health and safety incident reports. Remember that this information is personal and covered by data protection legislation and should be protected accordingly.

Securing Stage #3: The Handover Stage

At the handover stage, client project teams will receive building management systems such as light, heat, fire, and energy management. Throughout the process, construction companies interact with a supply chain in which each partner may have a different approach to cyber security, introducing additional vulnerabilities. Some businesses have managed to maintain the quality and level of their network infrastructure, while others are operating on outdated equipment with no security updates or patch management.

All of this contributes to an increased attack surface and opportunity for cybercriminals.

What can be done ensure Cybersecurity in Construction Industry?

Cyber security is about safeguarding the technology we rely on, and protecting the services and information that all businesses, large and small, need to function. The construction industry specifically needs to take the cyber threat seriously. And, as of today, Construction 4.0 is transforming the industry landscape in an unpredictable way. Artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced analytics (AA) are enabling new efficiency and creating new risk management paths.

At Payoda, we combine the knowledge of the construction industry (ecosystems, workflows, regulations, and stakeholders) with proactive and targeted threat intelligence to help construction businesses increase cyber resilience, stay ahead of threats, and make healthcare more secure for everyone.