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"Global Mining Descisions in Your Palms"
“Digital technology is in everything we do at BHP, from how we connect every day to how we extract and find resources more safely and sustainably. We are levering next generation technologies like cloud, machine learning and automation to solve complex business problems and unlock value even faster. Cloud is the foundation to our plans, and it will enable us to deploy digital solutions to the frontline quickly and at scale. Cloud will dramatically reduce the amount of hardware on sites and reduce costs.”
Laura Tyler,
Chief Technical Officer,
BHP.
The mining sector has seen a significant digital transformation in recent years, with advanced technologies enhancing operational efficiency and safety. Yet, this transformation has also ushered in new challenges, particularly in cybersecurity, as cybercriminals target the sector’s interconnected systems and valuable data.
Reports from Deloitte highlight a startling reality: cyber incidents in mining have surged by more than 50% over the past three years. This alarming trend has spurred mining giants like Rio Tinto to invest heavily in cutting-edge cybersecurity tools driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). These innovations enable real-time threat detection, bolstering defenses against evolving cyber threats.
Amidst these technological advancements, companies are also investing significantly in cybersecurity training programs. Recognizing human error as a critical vulnerability, mining leaders like BHP have implemented comprehensive initiatives to educate their workforce on cyber threats and best practices. Partnering with tech powerhouse Microsoft, BHP has fortified its global applications, ensuring robust security as operations transition to Azure. Laura Tyler, Chief Technical Officer, BHP commented; “Digital technology is in everything we do at BHP, from how we connect every day to how we extract and find resources more safely and sustainably. We are levering next generation technologies like cloud, machine learning and automation to solve complex business problems and unlock value even faster. Cloud is the foundation to our plans, and it will enable us to deploy digital solutions to the frontline quickly and at scale. Cloud will dramatically reduce the amount of hardware on sites and reduce costs.”
Additionally, infrastructure plays a pivotal role in cybersecurity resilience. Anglo American, for instance, has embarked on a multimillion-dollar initiative to modernize its IT and operational technology (OT) networks. This overhaul includes advanced encryption and multi-factor authentication (MFA), crucial for safeguarding against cyber threats. Moreover, Anglo American is nurturing future cybersecurity experts through pioneering its two-year apprenticeship program, addressing the industry-wide skills gap head-on.
Innovative digital solutions are also shaping the landscape. Teck Resources, leveraging Trellix’s XDR platform, has significantly streamlined security operations. Trellix’s technology empowers Teck to swiftly respond to threats, minimizing downtime and fortifying defenses against fast-moving cyber-attacks.
But looking ahead, the investment in mining cybersecurity is poised for exponential growth. Market projections suggest that by 2027, the global mining cybersecurity market could reach $5.2 billion, propelled by heightened cyber-attack frequency and stringent regulatory demands. Companies like Nornickel are not only prioritizing digital transformation for enhanced production but also fortifying IT infrastructure against potential disruptions, demonstrating a collaborative approach across sectors.
Also, partnerships exemplify industry commitment to cybersecurity. The alliance between Antofagasta and Nokia in 2022 with Nokia deploying private 5G networks at Chilean copper mine sites, illustrates how secure, high-capacity operations can be achieved with minimal latency.
Conclusively, by investing in advanced threat detection, robust training programs, and resilient infrastructure, mining companies are safeguarding their operations against cyber threats. These strategic efforts not only protect assets and ensure operational continuity but also reinforce the industry’s competitive edge in an increasingly digital world. As mining continues to evolve, robust cybersecurity measures remain essential, underscoring technology’s pivotal role in securing the industry’s future.