San Antonio Enhances Cybersecurity for Utilities

News Summary

San Antonio is boosting cybersecurity for its utility services, with City Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito advocating for increased oversight. Following a staggering rise in cyber attacks, the initiative emphasizes semi-annual reporting on cybersecurity efforts for San Antonio Water Systems (SAWS) and CPS Energy. The goal is to enhance transparency and collaboration in safeguarding vital services against potential threats, reflecting an urgent response to a nationwide trend of increased cyber vulnerabilities in utility sectors.

San Antonio Takes Steps to Secure Utility Cybersecurity

In a world where technology seems to be evolving at lightning speed, San Antonio is stepping up to ensure the safety of its vital utility services. City Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito is pushing for increased oversight of cybersecurity operations for city-owned utilities, specifically the San Antonio Water Systems (SAWS) and CPS Energy. The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated, especially given the significant rise in cyber threats targeting utilities across the country.

Why Now?

The urgency of Alderete Gavito’s proposal stems from an alarming report that revealed a staggering 70% increase in cyber attacks on utilities in 2024 alone. With cyber threats looming large on the horizon, it’s crucial for San Antonio to fortify its defenses. The Environmental Protection Agency also weighed in recently, advising water systems nationwide to ramp up their cybersecurity practices. In light of these developments, Alderete Gavito believes the city should take a more proactive approach.

Current Oversight: A Patchwork of Independence

At present, both CPS Energy and SAWS handle their cybersecurity operations independently, without much input from city leadership. Alderete Gavito has suggested that relevant city leaders, including members of the City Council, should be engaged in overseeing the utilities’ network security plans. By advocating for a shift towards more collaboration, she hopes to reinforce the *security fabric* of the utilities.

The Proposal: A Move Toward Transparency

Alderete Gavito’s initiative aims to implement a system of semi-annual reports detailing the cybersecurity efforts of both SAWS and CPS Energy. These reports would cover potential threats, results from annual risk assessments, and other significant updates on their cybersecurity strategies. This extra layer of scrutiny is intended to ensure that no stone is left unturned when it comes to defending against potential cyber threats. Notably, she clarified that this move is not a response to any local incident but rather a proactive measure to enhance security.

Inspiration from the Wider World

Responding to the Call

Meanwhile, SAWS President and CEO Robert Puente has welcomed the idea of briefings with city council members. He has expressed that utility leaders feel they have the authority to establish oversight but are open to collaborating with city officials to strengthen cybersecurity resilience. Puente has reassured that SAWS has made considerable investments in cybersecurity over the years, including mandatory annual training for all of its employees. These steps are aimed at cultivating a culture of security vigilance within the organization.

CPS Energy’s Challenges

On the other hand, CPS Energy has acknowledged that it faces difficulties due to outdated software systems. This has been part of the justification for their rate increases, as modernization efforts are deemed necessary not only for improved service but also for enhanced security against cyber threats.

Staying Cautious Yet Transparent

Both utilities maintain a cautious approach to sharing detailed information on their cybersecurity measures, keeping operational security in mind to thwart potential attackers. However, Alderete Gavito noted that concerns about leaking sensitive information should not stifle discussions about improving transparency regarding cybersecurity.

The Road Ahead

As San Antonio moves forward with this initiative, residents can feel more assured that their utilities are working diligently to safeguard core services. With increased oversight and a collaborative approach, the city can better navigate the complexities of cybersecurity in an ever-evolving digital landscape. After all, in today’s world, *an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure*, and San Antonio is taking that sentiment to heart.