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The digital transformation of mining: Navigating heightened cyber risks

Explore the critical need for robust cybersecurity in the mining industry as digital transformation accelerates. Stay informed on the latest trends in cybersecurity and discover best practices for mitigating supply chain vulnerabilities in mining.

30/05/2025 · 4 minute read

The mining industry is undergoing significant digital transformation, with the integration of advanced technologies like automation and artificial intelligence (AI) driving efficiency, enhancing safety, and informing strategic decision-making. 

However, this rapid evolution has increased mining organisations’ vulnerability to cyberattacks, posing significant threats to sensitive data and daily operations, with the potential to cause catastrophic financial and reputational damage. The stakes are particularly high when cyber events can impact worker health and safety, as well as critical supply chain infrastructure. To effectively protect their people, assets, and operations, mining organisations must identify and proactively manage cyber risks.

Understanding your cyber risk exposures in mining

As mining operations become increasingly digitised, companies face new cyber threats that may not have been previously considered. Cyberattacks generally fall into two categories:

  • Targeted attacks, where malicious actors intentionally exploit vulnerabilities to steal or threaten assets.
  • Untargeted or wide-area attacks, where cybercriminals indiscriminately target numerous devices, services, or organisations.

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Such cyberattacks can be to both information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems, potentially impacting employee safety, finances, and reputation.

Mining companies heavily rely on IT systems for various crucial functions, including data management, asset tracking, safety and risk monitoring, and financial reporting. The high volume of sensitive information stored within these systems means a successful cyberattack or data breach can significantly disrupt daily operations.

On the other hand, OT systems like industrial control systems (ICS), sensors, and automation tools manage and control the physical operations of a mine. These systems can be particularly vulnerable due to a lack of proper security controls and monitoring. For example, OT devices often lack regular security updates and robust authentication practices. While OT can enhance efficiency, it can also introduce unique cyber exposures.

Below are common cyber threats to mining companies, including risks to both their IT and OT systems:

Unauthorised access or disclosure of sensitive or critical information like geological surveys, financial and engineering data, or employee records, potentially leading to financial loss, reputational damage, or regulatory non-compliance.

Encryption of critical systems and data with a demand for ransom, causing significant operational disruptions, compromised data security and loss, and financial strain. 

Manipulation tactics used to trick individuals into divulging confidential or critical information or performing actions that compromise security. Common forms include phishing, impersonating, and baiting.

Interception and alteration of communication between two parties, potentially granting unauthorised access to sensitive data or critical information.

Risks arising from individuals within the company with authorised access who misuse their privileges, causing harm to cybersecurity and operations.

Overwhelming a network or website with traffic from multiple compromised devices, rendering it inaccessible.

Cybercriminals targeting less secure vendors and suppliers to infiltrate a company's systems or indirectly affecting an organisation through an attack on a supplier, leading to business interruption and loss of profit.

Bad actors gaining entry to OT networks connected to the IT environment, potentially leading to manipulation of the OT network if connections are not limited and data flow is not carefully monitored.

Compromised safety mechanisms designed to protect workers and equipment, potentially leading to unsafe working conditions by disabling or manipulating sensors, alarms, or emergency shutdown systems.

Unauthorised access allowing attackers to manipulate control parameters like equipment speed, pressure, or temperature, potentially causing malfunctions, overloads, catastrophic failures, physical damage, and production shutdowns.

Understanding these cyber risks is crucial for mining companies of all sizes to develop effective cyber risk management programmes aligned with their specific risk profiles and appetite. Establishing a cyber-aware culture is the first step towards implementing meaningful security controls. 

To learn more about how to strengthen your mining organisation’s cybersecurity controls, speak with a Marsh Risk representative. 

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