Cybersecurity for Broadband Providers

According to the Verizon 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report, the telecommunications industry was the second most targeted industry for cyberattacks in 2021, accounting for 16% of all breaches. The most common type of attacks were web application attacks, which exploit vulnerabilities in web applications in order to gain unauthorized access to data, systems, and networks.

As the world becomes more connected, thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT) and expanding networks, the attack surface for cybercriminals widens. According to the GSMA, there will be 25 billion connected devices by 2025.  This increased connectivity creates new opportunities for malicious actors to exploit vulnerabilities in devices and networks.  And since connectivity is at the heart of everything we do, broadband service providers (BSP) face a constant battle to protect their networks and data. Thus, it is critically important that tier 2 and 3 BSPs have access to the kinds of tools that the larger ISPs with their deeper pockets have to defend against these threats.

And cyber attackers are continually upping their game. Their tactics have evolved from simple brute-force attacks to highly sophisticated and targeted campaigns. Plus, the threat landscape is ever-evolving, with new types of attacks constantly emerging. Phishing schemes, ransomware, and denial of service attacks that prohibit users from gaining access to a service are just a few examples.

This increased complexity makes it increasingly challenging for BSPs to defend their networks effectively.  To mitigate the risks posed by the growing cyber-attack surface, BSPs must implement robust cybersecurity measures and comply with all relevant regulations. This includes measures to protect customer data and privacy, as well as to prevent and respond to cyberattacks. Meeting these standards is not only a legal necessity but also a key component of maintaining trust with customers.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be a powerful ally in defending against these threats, especially for tier 2 and 3 BSPs, who might not have the resources to the same tools as larger ISP providers.

How AI Can Help:

Artificial Intelligence is a game-changer in the world of cybersecurity, offering innovative solutions to address these evolving challenges:

Detect and Prevent Cyber Attacks

AI can analyze vast amounts of data in real time, identifying patterns and trends that would be nearly impossible for humans to detect. This capability allows for the swift detection and prevention of cyber attacks.

Automate Security Tasks

AI can automate routine security tasks like threat hunting and incident response. This automation not only enhances efficiency but also allows security teams to focus on more strategic activities.

Improve Security Posture

AI can evaluate security policies and procedures for vulnerabilities, automate tasks such as patch management, and streamline user provisioning. This proactive approach helps improve the overall security posture of telecom providers.

How Broadband Service Providers Can Utilize AI

BSPs can harness the power of AI to bolster their cybersecurity defenses. Here are several ways they can do so:

• Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS) — AI-powered IDS/IPS solutions continuously monitor network traffic for signs of malicious activity and can block threats in real time, enhancing network security.
• AI-Powered Firewalls — AI-driven firewalls adapt to new threats dynamically, providing more effective protection than traditional firewalls that rely on static rule sets.

• Web Filtering — AI-based web filtering solutions can identify and block malicious websites and phishing attempts, safeguarding users from harmful online content.

• Email Filtering — AI-powered email filtering solutions are adept at blocking spam emails and identifying phishing attacks, reducing the risk of successful email-based attacks.

• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) — AI-driven SIEM solutions collect and analyze security logs from across the network to detect and respond to suspicious activity swiftly.

• Threat Hunting — AI-driven threat-hunting tools enable BSPs to proactively identify and investigate potential threats before they can cause harm, preventing data breaches and disruptions.

How ETI Software Solutions Contributes

ETI Software Solutions is at the forefront of helping broadband providers improve their cybersecurity. They offer a range of solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of this industry:

Triad6

Triad6 is a comprehensive OSS/BSS solution incorporating essential security features like zero-trust security and single sign-on. This integrated approach enhances security while ensuring operational efficiency.

Smart B/OSS

The Smart B/OSS platform empowers broadband providers with robust security capabilities, including managed Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) and managed threat-hunting services, allowing providers to stay one step ahead of cyber threats.

Given the evolving threat landscape and increased connectivity, cybersecurity is a top priority for broadband providers. AI serves as a powerful ally in mitigating these risks by enhancing threat detection, automating security tasks, and bolstering overall security postures. ETI Software Solutions plays a vital role in assisting broadband providers in their quest to fortify their cybersecurity defenses, offering tailored solutions to meet their unique needs. With AI and the right partners, telecoms can continue to provide reliable and secure internet services to the world.