(TLP:CLEAR) DEF CON Franklin – Securing Water Infrastructure in Rural Communities
Created: Thursday, March 20, 2025 - 14:59
Categories: Cybersecurity, OT-ICS Security, Security Preparedness
Summary: A new collaboration initiative called DEF CON Franklin has established a Cyber Volunteer Task Force for water that provides DEF CON technologist volunteers to critical infrastructure in need of cybersecurity help. The effort is being established between the Cyber Policy Initiative (CPI), DEF CON, and NRWA. It specifically targets water systems across the nation that are the most vulnerable and least protected from cyber threats.
Analyst Note: Using a tiered model, the Franklin researchers provide cyber volunteer help that can be adjusted depending on the maturity of the user. An explanation of the tiers can be found at the NRWA website. WaterISAC is pleased to increase awareness of this initiative as we continue to work with NRWA to help underserved utilities find much needed cybersecurity resources.
If utilities are interested in learning more about being a part of the Franklin project, please contact Paul Chang at pa*****@******go.edu.
Original Source: https://content.nrwa.org/home/news/15739551/national-rural-water-association-nrwa-a-tiered-approach-to-securing-water-infrastructure-in-rural-communities
Additional Reading:
- First Water Utilities Take Volunteer Cyber Help
- Volunteer DEF CON hackers dive into America’s leaky water infrastructure
Related WaterISAC PIRs: 6, 12