Theoretical perspectives on cybersecurity challenges in critical water infrastructure: Insights from Africa and the United States

Fatai Adeshina Adelani 1, *, Tosin Michael Olatunde 2 and Johnson Sunday Oliha 3

1 Lagos Water Corporation, Lagos, Nigeria.
2 Department of Electrical Power and Energy Systems (with Advanced Practice), Nigeria.
3 Independent Researcher, Lagos, Nigeria.
 
Review
International Journal of Frontiers in Engineering and Technology Research, 2024, 06(02), 001–007.
Article DOI: 10.53294/ijfetr.2024.6.2.0029
Publication history: 
Received on 18 February 2024; revised on 28 March 2024; accepted on 30 March 2024
 
Abstract: 
This review paper examines the theoretical perspectives on cybersecurity challenges facing critical water infrastructure, with a focus on comparative insights from Africa and the United States. By exploring foundational theories of risk management, resilience, and deterrence, the paper delineates how these concepts are applied and adapted to address the cybersecurity needs of critical water systems within the distinct contexts of the two regions. The analysis identifies common challenges such as malware attacks, system vulnerabilities, human factors, and how regional differences influence technological infrastructure, regulatory environments, and cyber threat landscapes. Through a comparative analysis, the paper highlights lessons learned and best practices from both regions, emphasizing the importance of capacity building, comprehensive risk management, and the role of public-private partnerships. The paper concludes with a call for future research to develop adaptable theoretical models that address different regions' unique cybersecurity challenges, underlining theoretical understanding's critical role in enhancing the global resilience of critical water infrastructure against cyber threats.
 
Keywords: 
Cybersecurity Challenges; Critical Water Infrastructure; Theoretical Perspectives; Risk Management; Resilience Theory
 
Full text article in PDF: