New data points to the escalation and evolving nature of cyber threats to mining and metals operations and other resource industries.
In the wake of at least two high-profile incidents involving the mining industry in recent months, experts agree that understanding the cyber risk landscape and the threats new technologies bring is critical for planning reliable and resilient operations.
In a recent development that sent shockwaves through the mining industry, Copper Mountain Mining (TSX: CMMC; ASX: C6C) in December put its Canadian treatment plant on a “preventative” shutdown for six days after being hit by a ransomware attack.
During the downtime the company continued delivering copper concentrate to the Port of Vancouver from mine inventory and has maintained its planned shipping schedule.
The company said it quickly implemented its risk management protocols.
On Jan. 1, the company resumed operations of the primary crusher at its eponymous mine. Shortly after that, it resumed operations at the mill, which was preventatively shut down following the attack. On Jan. 4, the mill was at full production, and the operation is currently being stabilized as the remaining business…
