THEORETICAL INSIGHTS INTO SECURING REMOTE MONITORING SYSTEMS IN WATER DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS: LESSONS LEARNED FROM AFRICA-US PROJECTS

Abstract

This review paper delves into the critical realm of securing remote monitoring systems within water distribution networks, illuminating theoretical insights and practical lessons gleaned from collaborative projects between Africa and the United States. Given the pivotal role of water distribution networks in public health and safety, integrating remote monitoring systems offers substantial benefits in operational efficiency and resource management. However, this integration also introduces significant security vulnerabilities that pose risks to critical infrastructure data's integrity, availability, and confidentiality. Through a comprehensive analysis, this paper explores the multifaceted security challenges inherent in these systems, underscores the importance of robust theoretical frameworks for cybersecurity, and highlights effective security practices derived from international collaboration projects. It proposes principles for designing, implementing, and managing secure systems, emphasizing the necessity of defence-in-depth strategies, the principle of least privilege, and the critical role of continuous monitoring and adaptive response mechanisms. Furthermore, it identifies ongoing challenges and future directions for research, stressing the dynamic nature of cybersecurity threats and the potential of emerging technologies to fortify security measures. The paper advocates for sustained collaborative efforts and research to navigate the evolving landscape of security challenges in water distribution networks, ensuring their resilience against threats. Keywords: Remote Monitoring Systems, Water Distribution Security, Cybersecurity Frameworks.