Critical infrastructure

What is Critical infrastructure

Critical infrastructure refers to the physical and virtual systems and assets that are essential to the functioning of society and the economy. These systems include things like power grids, transportation networks, communication systems, water and sewage systems, and financial systems. Critical infrastructure is often operated by private sector entities, but it is essential to the public interest.

Information security is critical to the protection of critical infrastructure, as many of these systems rely on information technology and interconnected networks to function. A security breach or cyberattack on critical infrastructure can result in significant damage, including physical damage, financial loss, and the disruption of essential services.

Because of the importance of critical infrastructure, it is often subject to additional security and regulatory requirements to ensure its protection. Governments and regulatory bodies may require critical infrastructure operators to implement specific security measures and comply with security standards and guidelines. Additionally, organizations that operate critical infrastructure often work closely with government agencies and law enforcement to coordinate security efforts and respond to security incidents.