BHP, together with Anglo American and Chilean miners Antofagasta Minerals, Codelco and Collahuasi, has launched an initiative to strengthen defence against cyber threats.
The Mining Cybersecurity Corporation aims to generate and share cyber-intelligence information for early warning and response, and to promote a culture of cybersecurity in mining operations.
“As BHP we are enthusiastic about this initiative and, therefore, we want to contribute with our experience in the protection of assets and systems,” BHP Minerals Americas cybersecurity manager Ezequiel Fagetti said.
“Cybersecurity is vital for the proper functioning of the different production systems and, ultimately, for us to continue contributing to the country.
“If we strengthen this aspect, we strengthen the mining industry as a whole, its value chain, and safeguard the benefits for everyone.”
The initiative is being led by Chilean mining promotion entity Corporación Alta Ley and supported by the Chilean Ministry of Mining.
BHP said that studies have indicated cyber-attacks will cost companies approximately $US10.5 billion ($15.7 billion) by 2025.
Though technological progress in recent years has seen the industry flourish, it also opens up operators to cybersecurity risks.
More than 4 billion cyber-attacks took place in Chile during the first half of 2023, positioning it as the fifth country in Latin America with the most incidents.
BHP and its partners aim to secure a safer future for mining practices where the industry needs it most.
Subscribe to Australian Mining and receive the latest news on product announcements, industry developments, commodities and more.
