Communication

An industry that provides communication services through various channels, such as telecommunications, broadcasting, and media.

Threats & Risks

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods can damage or destroy communication infrastructure, such as cell towers, fiber optic cables, and data centers.

Power Outages

Power outages can disrupt communication services and lead to lost revenue. Power outages can be caused by equipment failures, storms, cyberattacks, and other factors.

Physical Security

Communication facilities can be vulnerable to physical attacks, theft, and vandalism. Unauthorized access to communication facilities can cause damage, disrupt services, and potentially compromise customer data.

Infrastructure Failures

Communication facilities rely on various components such as network equipment, routers, switches, and servers. These components are subject to wear and tear and can fail, causing service interruptions.

Cyber attacks on infrastructure

Communication networks, servers, and data centers are targets for cyber attacks, which can lead to data theft, service disruption, and financial losses.

Malware and ransomware attacks

Malicious software can infect communication networks and devices, leading to data theft, system disruption, and financial loss. Ransomware attacks can also lead to demands for payment to regain control of data or systems.

Phishing attacks

Cyber criminals can send fraudulent emails or messages to communication industry employees or customers, tricking them into sharing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links.

Insider threats

Employees with access to sensitive data or systems can intentionally or unintentionally cause data breaches or system disruptions.

Internet of Things (IoT) vulnerabilities

Communication devices and networks connected to the IoT can be vulnerable to cyber attacks, as many IoT devices are not designed with robust security features.

Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

APTs are sophisticated attacks that involve a series of coordinated steps, including reconnaissance, infiltration, and data exfiltration. They can remain undetected for long periods, allowing cybercriminals to steal sensitive data over time.

Third-party vulnerabilities

Communication companies often work with third-party vendors, who may have access to sensitive data or network infrastructure. These vendors may have their own vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals, leading to data breaches.

Network downtime

Network downtime can result from cyber attacks, hardware or software failures, natural disasters, and human error. This can cause disruption to communication services, leading to lost revenue and customer dissatisfaction.

Infrastructure failure

Hardware or software failures can cause disruption to communication services, leading to lost revenue and customer dissatisfaction.

Vendor and supply chain issues

The communication industry relies on vendors and suppliers to provide critical services and components. Any issues with these vendors or suppliers can cause disruption to communication services.

Power outages

Communication companies depend heavily on continuous power supply to maintain their network infrastructure. Power outages can cause service disruption, data loss, and equipment failure.

Equipment failure

The communication industry is highly dependent on complex equipment and technology that requires regular maintenance and replacement. Equipment failure can cause service disruption, data loss, and delays in restoring services.

Supply chain disruption

Communication companies rely on a complex global supply chain to source critical components, equipment, and technology. Disruptions in the supply chain can cause delays, equipment shortages, and increased costs.

Employee safety

Communication companies have a large workforce that operates in hazardous environments, including cell towers and underground cables. Employee safety must be a top priority to ensure business continuity.

Standards Compliance Requirement

Standards	Requirement	Clauses
ISO 14001	Environmental Management Standard	8.2 Emergency Preparedness and Response
ISO 45001	Occupational Health & Safety management system	6.1.2.1 – Hazard identification 8.2 Emergency Preparedness and Response
ISO 27001	Information Security Management Systems	A.10.1.4 – Separation of development, test and operational facilities A.10.3.2 System acceptance A.12.4.2 Protection of system test data A.12.5.2 Technical review of applications after operating system changes A.14.1.4 Business continuity planning framework A.14.1.5 Testing, maintaining and reassessing business continuity plans
ISO 50001	Energy Management Standard	2.6.1 Monitoring, Measurement and Analysis
ANSI/ESD S20.20
TL 9000
OHSAS 18001