Work

Railroad Cybersecurity: A Systematic Bibliometric Review

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Cybersecurity challenges are increasing in the rail industry because of constant technological evolution that includes the Internet-of-Things, blockchains, automation, and artificial intelligence. Consequently, many railroads and supply chain stakeholders have implemented strategies and practices to address these challenges. However, the pace of cybersecurity implementation in the railroad industry is slow even as cyberthreats escalate. This systematic review incorporates bibliometric analysis to analyze 70 articles focusing on cybersecurity practices in the rail freight industry, structured around four research questions relating to: (1) challenges, (2) measures, (3) emerging trends, and (4) innovations. Key findings are that implementing cybersecurity practices in the rail freight industry comes with numerous challenges and risks. The study concludes that new threats will constantly emerge with technological advancements. Therefore, there is a need for continuous human training, collaboration, and coordination with stakeholders. This study also highlights research gaps and recommends how stakeholders can most appropriately execute cybersecurity strategies and best coordinate them with the various technological functions in the rail freight industry.

Source: Designs

DOI: 10.3390/designs9010023

Authors: Ruhaimatu Abudu, Raj Bridgelall, Bright Parker Quayson, Denver Tolliver, Kwabena Dadson

Institutions: North Dakota State University, Upper Great Plains Transportation Institute

Language: English

Topic: Information and Cyber Security

Subfield: Information Systems

Field: Computer Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,930