IACIPP launches extranet platform to protect critical infrastructure from terrorist attacks

IACIPP responds to UN Security Council’s call to protect critical infrastructure from terrorist attacks. In February 2017, UN Security Council urged joint measures to protect critical infrastructure from terrorist attacks.

Increasing physical and cyber threats

Given the importance of critical infrastructure for a country’s prosperity and security and against the backdrop of increasingly diverse physical and cyber threats from terrorist groups, the United Nations Security Council underlined the need for international collaboration—both domestically and across borders—to ensure their protection.

In a resolution adopted unanimously, the 15-member Security Council reiterated the need to strengthen efforts to improve security and protection of particularly vulnerable targets, such as infrastructure and public places.

Safeguarding public services

Attacks against objects and sectors such as banking and finance, telecommunications, emergency services, air, maritime, and rail transportation, and energy and water supply—perceived as attractive targets for terrorist groups—can result not only in civilian casualties, but also damage property on a large scale, disrupt proper functioning of public services, and create chaos in societies.

It called upon UN Member States to share information to prevent, protect, mitigate, investigate, respond to, and recover from damage from terrorist attacks on critical infrastructure facilities, including through joint training, and use or establishment of relevant communication or emergency warning networks.

Information sharing and networking

In response to this call to action, the International Association of Critical Infrastructure Protection Professionals (IACIPP) has announced the launch of an extranet designed for critical infrastructure professionals to share information with other members, keep up-to-date with the latest threats, best practices, training opportunities, and much more.

Chairman of the IACIPP, John Donlon QPM, FSI, said: “We fully endorse the UN resolution and we have already been working hard to do our part to make that aspiration a reality. The extranet is now live and operational for members. The association is open to all CIP professionals including operator site managers, security officers as well as first responders, government agency officials, officers, and policy makers. Membership of the association is still free and we encourage colleagues around the world to join us.”

He went on to say: “We look forward to welcoming new members and will be demonstrating the extranet platform for the first time at the Critical Infrastructure Protection and Resilience, Europe conference and expo in The Hague from the 9th to 11th May 2017, where CIP professionals from across Europe and beyond will gather once again to discuss the burning issues.”