Protecting Critical National Infrastructures: An Overview of Cyberattacks and Countermeasures

Ensuring the security of critical national infrastructures (CNIs) has emerged as a pressing concern for governments and organizations across the globe. These infrastructures are the backbone of society, encompassing essential systems and assets such as power grids, transportation networks, financial systems, and water treatment plants. Any disruption to their smooth operation can have serious consequences, affecting the daily lives of people and the economy as a whole. Cyberattacks on CNIs can cause widespread power outages, disrupt transportation systems, and result in financial losses for companies, among other consequences. Furthermore, they can damage a company’s reputation, erode customer trust, and have far-reaching economic ripple effects. The impact of a cyberattack on a CNI can be catastrophic, impacting not only the company itself but also the customers and society as a whole. This survey provides an overview of the most significant cyber threats to CNIs worldwide, including the attacks, the most targeted and severely impacted sectors, and the most effective countermeasures to mitigate those threats. The survey considers a literature review of cyberattacks against CNIs, their impact, and proposed countermeasures. It also provides an overview of the current state of cybersecurity for CNIs and identifies key areas for future research. The study aims to help researchers, practitioners, and policymakers understand the current state of cybersecurity for CNIs and develop effective strategies to protect them. The survey methodology comprises a multi-step process, including literature review, data collection, analysis, recommendations, and reporting.