The Current State of Cybersecurity in the U.S. Food Supply Chain

Nova Southeastern University, Davie, Florida, USA

Objective. This study examines the cybersecurity measures currently in place to protect the United States food supply chain, identifies gaps in security measures, and suggests areas for improvement. Background. Technological innovation and the networked nature of the system have increased the vulnerability of the food supply chain. Further, preparedness and response measures for cyber incidents are limited. Methods. Existing literature was reviewed to determine the current state and potential weaknesses of data and electronic systems security in the food supply chain. Results. A cyber-attack on any segment of the food supply chain poses a significant threat to the American people and economy. The following are specific cyber threats to the system: theft, public exposure and misinformation, data corruption or loss, data manipulation or falsification, and threats to integrity. Of these threats, data corruption and threats to integrity pose the greatest risk of exploitation by hackers. To improve the security of the U.S. food supply chain, regulations and practices should be implemented to encompass all phases of the disaster cycle: prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery. However, such regulations could not be uniform due to the differing sizes and types of enterprises involved in the supply chain. Conclusion. Current cybersecurity measures do little to protect the food supply chain from potential attacks. As such, an investment in preparedness and response would greatly mitigate the risk and potential damage caused by a cyber incident.