Navigating Cybersecurity and Compliance in US Water Utilities: A Collaborative Jacobs Approach

Navigating the Evolving Threats of Cybersecurity and Regulatory Compliance for US Water and Wastewater Utilities: A Collaborative Approach by Jacobs

By Susan Moisio, Vice President Global Water Director at Jacobs and John Karabias, Vice President for Operational Technology OT Cybersecurity

With increased cyber threats targeting US water and wastewater facilities over the last year, operational disruptions have become a significant concern. As utilities modernize their Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition SCADA systems and industrial control networks, the cyber attack surface has expanded, necessitating enhanced vigilance from both IT and security teams. Utilities are now faced with balancing day-to-day operations while defing agnst complex cyber threats that could compromise plant functionality.

Regulatory pressures have intensified for water management organizations in recent months. The US government's new directives require utilities to implement cybersecurity standards across their systems and report substantial incidents promptly to the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency CISA.

The introduction of legislation like the Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act of 2022 CIRCIA has mandated that water entities categorize, manage, and report cyber incidents effectively. It emphasizes not only reporting the occurrence but also the need to address ransomware payments within 24 hours after they are made.

At Jacobs, we recognize the urgency of this situation and have developed a comprehensive approach to support utilities in navigating these evolving challenges.

With our team of more than 9,000 experts across drinking water, wastewater, desalination, conveyance, and flood control sectors, we provide innovative solutions through an integrated OneWater management strategy. Susan Moisio, as our Global Water Director, leads this dedicated group committed to delivering cutting-edge technical expertise for complex environmental challenges.

Susan serves as a key influencer in the water industry, sharing her knowledge with Jacobs employees and contributing to industry advancements. We are proud of her recognition by Global Water Intelligence GWI as one of the top 40 influencers shaping the future of water management.

John Karabias specializes in OT cybersecurity at Jacobs, bringing fifteen years of experience across various sectors including critical infrastructure. As an adjunct professor and board member f councils, John is deeply involved in advancing cybersecurity strategies that protect vital assets from threats.

Together, we offer a strategic framework designed to enhance utilities' cyber readiness. This approach starts with identifying vulnerabilities agnst current threat intelligence, setting a path forward for comprehensive cybersecurity defense across the entire waterwastewater system.

Our method incorporates not just technology but also organizational processes and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that cybersecurity initiatives align with operational priorities while meeting regulatory requirements efficiently.

Jacobs remns committed to fostering an environment where utilities can confidently navigate through these evolving cybersecurity challenges, leveraging our expertise in risk assessment, threat management, and compliance adherence.

By adopting Jacobs' comprehensive cybersecurity solutions, water utilities gn access to a trusted partner for addressing complex issues that keep day-to-day operations running smoothly while safeguarding agnst cyber threats.

: The collaborative approach offered by Jacobs combines deep industry knowledge with state-of-the-art technology to support US water and wastewater utilities in managing both existing challenges and anticipating future cybersecurity risks. Our team is dedicated to partnering closely with clients to ensure the resilience of critical infrastructure through effective risk management, robust compliance strategies, and continuous innovation.

Authors: Susan Moisio, Vice President Global Water Director at Jacobs John Karabias, Vice President for Operational Technology OT Cybersecurity
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