The Emerging Field of Cyber-biosecurity: Risks & Opportunities

In an increasingly interconnected world, the convergence of various technological domains has become a reality, opening new avenues for innovation and progress. One such convergence that demands significant attention is the intersection of cybersecurity and biosecurity. As our reliance on technology grows and our capabilities in the field of biotechnology, synthetic biology, and gene technology advance, the risks associated with protecting the related data and systems increases.

Components of Cyber-biosecurity

Cyber-biosecurity draws together multi-disciplinary links between cybersecurity, biosecurity, and cyber-physical systems with impacts across a number of industries including, health, agriculture, manufacturing, and research. This fusion of technologies presents novel opportunities for both malicious actors and accidental vulnerabilities, and one that is critical to the expanding bio-economy.

Cyber-biosecurity is critical to protecting potential or actual malicious destruction, misuse, or exploitation of valuable information, processes, and material at the interface of the life sciences and digital worlds, (Murch et al. 2020). Yet, to protect this emerging field from attack, we must understand the new vulnerabilities and address emerging challenges to ensure the safety and security of both digital and biological domains.

Emerging Risks‍

1. ‍Information  Breaches: Genetic databases, research findings, and medical records are increasingly stored in digital formats, making them vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Unauthorised access to genetic data could lead to privacy breaches, identity theft, and access to dual-use biological data.
2. ‍Biotechnology Tampering: As biotechnology integrates with digital systems, the potential for remote tampering and manipulation of biological processes becomes a concern. Hackers could target laboratory equipment, altering experimental conditions or the synthesis of biological agents. Such tampering could lead to skewed research outcomes, contaminated products, or dangerous bio-hacks.
3. ‍IoT-Enabled Labs: Internet of Things (IoT) devices are prevalent in biosecurity environments to monitor and control various parameters. These devices, if not     adequately secured, can serve as entry points for cyber-attacks. Compromised IoT devices could disrupt experiments, compromise sample integrity, or leak sensitive data, that could be utilised for sabotage, financial gain or espionage.
4. ‍Dual-Use Technologies: Advances in biotechnology have enabled the creation of synthetic organisms and potentially harmful agents. If these technologies fall into the wrong hands, they could be weaponised for malicious purposes. Cyber-attacks that target the systems controlling these technologies could enable unauthorised access to restricted or sensitive biological materials or bi-products.

Mitigation Strategies

1. ‍Integrated Security: Organisations operating at the intersection of cyber-biosecurity must implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect digital interfaces and data. Firewalls, encryption, regular security audits, and user training are essential to thwart cyber-attacks.
2. ‍Physical Security: Biosecurity measures should extend to physical laboratory spaces. Restricted access, surveillance systems, and proper training for personnel can prevent unauthorised access to physical samples and integrated equipment.
3. ‍Secure Software Development: Developers of biotechnology software and interfaces must prioritise security from the design phase. Regular updates and patches should be provided to address vulnerabilities and potential exploits.
4. ‍Regulations and Compliance: Governments and regulatory bodies should collaborate to establish comprehensive guidelines for the secured use of biotechnology and digital systems. Compliance with these regulations should be mandatory for research institutions and biotech companies.
5. ‍Ethical Considerations: As with any emerging technology, ethical discussions are paramount. Striking a balance between innovation and responsible use is essential to prevent unintended consequences.

The emerging risks of cyber-biosecurity necessitate a holistic approach that encompasses technology, regulation, and ethical considerations. The potential for cyber-attacks to compromise biotechnological advancements and the potential for biotechnology to be misused through cyber-attacks demand immediate attention. By fostering collaboration between cybersecurity experts, biotechnologists, policymakers, and leadership, society can harness the benefits of this convergence while safeguarding against its inherent risks. Only through proactive measures can we navigate the complex landscape of cyber-biosecurity and ensure a secure future for both our digital and biological domains.

Sention has developed and delivered a number of cyber-biosecurity workshops with provision of Cyber-biosecurity assessment, planning and response tools.

‍

‍

‍