Cybersecurity threats aren’t slowing down, and since you’re in the utility space, you probably know just how high the stakes are. Recent security advisories have made one thing crystal clear: cyber threats evolve as fast as technology itself. This means staying ahead of potential vulnerabilities isn’t optional – it’s essential. Unless you enjoy the thrill of crippling surprise downtime and ransom demands (spoiler: you don’t).

Why is cybersecurity more critical than ever?

Recent reports have shown cyber incidents targeting a prominent utility software platform. While we aren’t in the business of kicking a competitor while they’re down, if a major platform can wind up on an EPA alert, any system could.

So, what’s the best defense against cyber threats? A layered security strategy that reduces exposure, detects threats early, and ensures rapid response.

What are the best practices to help with cybersecurity?

Start with these fundamentals to help keep your IT environment secure:

• Regular security audits: Find weak spots before attackers do (because they will look – and probably already are).
• Patch management: Keep software up to date, not just to access that new feature, but also to better protect against breaches.
• Access controls: Only give proper access to those who truly need it. This also pertains to security rights in your utility billing and CIS software, but that’s a discussion for another day.
• Threat monitoring: Use real-time detection tools to catch threats before they catch you.
• Employee training: Because clicking on unexpected files from unknown senders is somehow still a thing.

How can United Systems help?

Cyber threats don’t take a day off, and neither do we. At United Systems, we provide:

• 24/7 threat monitoring, because cybercriminals don’t use timeclocks.
• Advanced security solutions built for IT/OT environments.
• Proactive vulnerability assessments that find weak spots before someone else does.
• Expert support, because “turning it off and on again” isn’t a security plan.
• Decades of experience managing the IT needs of utilities just like yours.

If cybersecurity is keeping you up at night (or if you just want to make sure it never does), we’re here to help. Let’s talk about locking down your network before the bad guys even get close.