A cybersecurity resilience framework for underserved rural SMEs in critical infrastructure supply chains: Strengthening operational continuity and threat response in digitally vulnerable regions
Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
Review Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 24(03), 3464-3477
Publication history:
Received on 14 November 2024; revised on 22 December 2024; accepted on 25 December 2024
Abstract:
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in underserved rural regions, particularly those integrated into critical infrastructure supply chains, face heightened vulnerability to evolving cyber threats. These SMEs often lack access to specialized cybersecurity resources and expertise, posing significant challenges to their operational continuity and overall resilience. This paper proposes a cybersecurity resilience framework specifically tailored for these underserved rural SMEs. The framework aims to enhance their capacity to resist cyberattacks, ensure business continuity, and improve threat response within critical infrastructure supply chains. It addresses this risk by incorporating scalable cybersecurity solutions, leveraging local knowledge, and fostering collaboration with larger stakeholders to mitigate threats, accelerate response, and build resilience in these vulnerable regions. This article also highlights key considerations for enhancing cybersecurity awareness, training, and resource allocation to enable SMEs to navigate the digital landscape safely and efficiently.
Keywords:
Cybersecurity resilience; Small-to-medium size enterprises; Critical infrastructure; Business continuity; Threat response; Digital resilience; Cybersecurity framework
Full text article in PDF:
Copyright information:
Copyright © 2024 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0