Using Rugged Tablets to Detect and Prevent Cyberattacks in the Navy

Similar to physical warfare, cyberattacks depend on how well they are executed to have a negative outcome. The increased digitization of the navy has led to an increased interest in implementing cybersecurity solutions.

Ships are can be vulnerable to cyber threats due to the digitalization of their command and control systems, and their connection to other naval assets via radio frequencies, satellites, and data linkages.

It is crucially important to keep hackers from accessing the IT aboard ship platforms and connecting to sensors, effectors, and control systems. To prevent threats like contaminated mail or hacked USB keys, any private internet connectivity via smartphones or portable memory devices must be fully cut off from the ship’s communication system. 

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Here are the 3 key security features of rugged tablets that help the navy detect and prevent cyberattacks:

Common Access Cards (CAC)

Military-grade tablets come with extra security measures and CAC readers that restrict access to information to only authorized people who have security clearance.

Today, data breaches are a frequent occurrence. Common Access Cards are identification cards that are given to contractors, members of the armed forces, and workers of federal, state, and local governments. Within naval facilities, the card is used to regulate access to specific places and data. Having a CAC reader prevents possible data breaches on the base, protecting the sensitive information of the navy. 

Contractors or other employees without high-level security clearances are blocked from accessing restricted files by CAC readers, which ensure that only employees with the appropriate security clearances have access to particular information within the network. Data integrity is strengthened with the use of automatic building/base access control systems, communication encryption, and computer access. 

Lockdown features

Rugged tablets from DT Research offer integrated hardware-software security and make the most of cutting-edge Windows 10 security features like Device Guard business hardware and software protection, which only allows authorized programs to be used on the tablet. These rugged computing devices have “lockdown” features that protect against malicious users while simultaneously enhancing system stability and offering a specially designed user experience.

A media sanitization option that complies with NSA and USA-AF/Navy/Army regulations can be put into a tablet that is designed for the military. Instant blackout, automatic WiFi, RFID, and wireless technology shutdown features that can be pre-configured to turn off all radio capabilities when certain circumstances are met.

Secured Communication Line

Rugged tablets’ main tactical advantage is the safe reception of information from field operatives, who then send that information to centralized places to impact strategic approaches.

Rugged tablets have a number of capabilities that make them perfect for the navy’s need for precise instructions and situational awareness. Users may take advantage of 4G and 5G connectivity everywhere there is an internet connection thanks to native WiFi features. Users may easily receive the information they need thanks to additional technologies like long-range wireless technology and radio frequency identification. Communication with field personnel is strengthened by a variety of security measures, including identifying tools like common access card readers, LANs with encryption, VPNs, and IPsec.

Rugged tablets offer an advanced layer of security and protection against cyber threats to ensure data that is collected and stored on the tablet is secure. Rugged tablets are built to withstand harsh conditions such as extreme weather conditions hot or cold, dust, drops and high vibration – perfect for military vehicle fleets. They can be used in the field, at the base or in an office and data is accessed in real-time by members with the appropriate credentials.