Josephine van Luik: "Every horticultural business is only as safe as the weakest link in the chain"

Horticulture is undergoing rapid digitalisation by means of robotics, smart sensors and climate control. While this development offers many opportunities, it also makes companies more vulnerable. Cybersecurity therefore requires a systematic approach, not only to prevent unauthorised access but also to avoid confusion about responsibilities. In the latest edition of Horticoop's magazine BLAD, the importance of digital resilience for growers will be highlighted. Together with Josephine van Luik Community Manager at Cyberweerbaarheidscentrum (Cyber Resilience Centre) Greenport, it will be explored why cybersecurity is no longer optional, but a structural part of doing business.

Every grower and supplier deals with operational technology (OT) in some way, for example in the form of a greenhouse device such as a conveyor belt or a robotic arm. Previously, 'office IT' used to be seperate from the installations and cultivation systems in the greenhouse, but those domains now overlap. As a result, Josephine sees the risks for growers quickly increasing. 

Josephine van Luik: "The sector is becoming more digital and this makes it more vulnerable. When systems fail, production comes to a halt. Cybersecurity has therefore become a continuity issue. To enhance your digital safety, you need to address IT and OT at the same time. Keep an eye on which systems are running, how they are connected and who has access. That makes it easier to identify and vulnerabilities"

Curious how to make your business more resilient in an increasingly digital sector? Read the full article here!