Cyber Attacks and FBI Pt 2
From the Ag Information Network, this is today’s Fruit Grower Report. As reliance on high-tech systems in agriculture grows, farmers must learn more about cybercrime and how to keep systems safe.
One way, according to the FBI’s Gene Kowel, is what he calls "good cyber-hygiene" like going to the FBI website and getting to know your local FBI branches …
KOWEL … “I mean the number one thing with cyber-hygiene is don’t click on a link if you don’t know where it came from. You know, if you receive an unsolicited link or offer from a source you don’t know or can’t verify, don’t click on it."
The FBI wants to help, Kowel says, but many cyberattacks are
not reported …
KOWEL … “If you are the victim of a cyberattack, call us. There’s a lot we can do to help provide a response, either help you get back in the business, to impose risks and consequences on the cyber-adversary. And sometimes if we’re called quick enough, if a ransomware is paid or you lose an amount of money to try to retrieve those funds and get them back in the pockets of the people who earn them."
Still, protecting the ag industry from cybercrime, Kowel says, relies on partnerships and trust with local FBI offices …
KOWEL … “So, we just encourage people to read about what the FBI is doing in the agricultural space to help protect it, call your local FBI office if you have questions or want to learn more. Look online and just know that we’re here and stand shoulder to shoulder to do whatever we can to help protect this part of our country’s critical infrastructure."
Again, that’s Gene Kowel the special agent in charge at the FBI’s Field Office in Omaha, Nebraska.
