Cybercrime and Construction: What You Need to Know

Cybercrime stories targeting personal data and information are in the news daily and the construction industry is not immune.

With the construction industry’s adaptation of and reliance on web-based and remote access project management software and digital payments, it has become more efficient but also more vulnerable to hackers and cyber criminals.

And they are becoming increasingly more aggressive – the uptick in ransomware incidents is a prime example – in their tactics and frequency. Construction cyber fraud can have various causes, often stemming from vulnerabilities within the industry’s digital systems and practices.

Weak Passwords – The use of weak, easily guessed passwords can make it easier for cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access to systems and data.

Phishing Attacks – Cybercriminals may use phishing emails or messages to trick employees into providing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links, which can then be used to gain access to systems or data.

Unsecure Networks – Construction sites and offices often use unsecure or public Wi-Fi networks, which can be easily compromised by cybercriminals.

Outdated Software – Failure to regularly update software and systems can leave them vulnerable to known security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals.

Lack of Security Awareness – Employees may not be adequately trained to recognize and respond to potential cyber threats, making them more susceptible to cyber fraud.

Insufficient Access Controls – Poorly implemented access controls can allow unauthorized individuals to gain access to sensitive information or systems.

Third-Party Risks – Contractors, subcontractors, and other third-party vendors may have weak cybersecurity measures, which can pose a risk to the overall project.

Ransomware – Ransomware attacks, where cybercriminals encrypt data and demand a ransom for its release, can disrupt construction projects and lead to financial losses.

Data Breaches – Breaches of sensitive data, such as project plans, financial information, or personal data, can result in financial fraud or identity theft.

Inadequate Security Policies – A lack of comprehensive cybersecurity policies and procedures can leave construction companies more vulnerable to cyber fraud.

Addressing these underlying causes requires a combination of technical measures (such as strong passwords, secure networks, and regular updates) and organizational practices (such as security awareness training and robust access controls) to protect against cyber fraud in the construction industry.

How to Protect Against Cyber Crime

Protecting your construction project from cyber fraud and crime involves implementing robust cybersecurity measures. Here are some key steps to protect your project:

Secure Your Network – Use firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems to protect your network from unauthorized access and malware.

Encrypt Data – Encrypt sensitive data both in transit and at rest to protect it from being accessed or stolen.

Strong Authentication – Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for accessing critical systems and data to add an extra layer of security.

Regular Updates – Keep your software, operating systems, and firmware up to date with the latest security patches and updates.

Access Control – Limit access to sensitive information and systems to only those who need it. Use role-based access controls (RBAC) to enforce this.

Employee Training – Educate employees about cybersecurity best practices, such as recognizing phishing emails and avoiding suspicious links or attachments.

Vendor Security – Ensure that vendors and contractors adhere to cybersecurity best practices and have measures in place to protect your data.

Data Backups – Regularly back up your data and store it securely to protect against data loss due to cyber attacks or other incidents.

Incident Response Plan – Have an incident response plan in place to quickly address and mitigate the impact of a cyber attack or data breach.

Security Audits – Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and address potential weaknesses in your security infrastructure.

By implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of cyber fraud and crime impacting your construction project.

Discover the Wojcik Builder Difference

If your business is looking for a commercial construction partner that goes the extra mile to deliver project on-time, on budget and that exceed expectations, call Wojcik Builders at 440-786-1776.