ZAG Technical Services says it has expanded a cybersecurity offering that is more accessible to growers and shippers.
The San Jose, Calif.-based IT consulting firm specializing in information technology, cybersecurity and data analytics in the ag, food and beverage industries, says the new offering is a comprehensive IT security review, which helps growers and shippers minimize interruptions of cyber threats during harvest.
“Securing our food supply chain is a top priority,” ZAG President Greg Gatzke said in a news release. “We know cybercriminals have deliberately targeted ag companies during harvest, their busiest time, to inflict maximum damage and receive maximum payouts.”
The assessment includes an executive report detailing a farm or shipping operation’s cybersecurity preparedness, a priority list of vulnerabilities that need to be addressed, pre- and post-remediation advice and reports with information pertinent to internal IT teams. ZAG says the goal is to ensure the shipper and grower understand strengths and vulnerabilities in its cybersecurity framework.
“It’s like a routine checkup for your IT, ensuring stability and security during your busiest season,” said Gatzke. “The average ransomware payout is around $600,000, and that does not include unfilled orders, inability to produce for days and lost business. We are working to change that.”
The company said the assessment is available at different levels depending on the needs of the grower and packer, without additional contracts or commitments.
“We understand this industry well and the challenges facing today’s grower-shipper, including labor shortages, resource scarcity, challenging margins and cyber threats,” said Gatzke. “Our updated IT Security Review Solution takes a great step toward securing the food supply chain by offering a mid-level solution for those seeking to secure their IT systems.”
