HSL strengthens public transport cybersecurity across its services

Digitalisation has improved public transport services, but it has also increased cybersecurity risks. HSL works with IQI to strengthen its cybersecurity and ensure the continuity and security of its systems and services. IQI provides HSL with cybersecurity expertise in areas such as contingency planning and information security audits.

“The risk of denial-of-service attacks has increased, partly because of Finland’s changing geopolitical position. As a provider of public services, we must be prepared for a higher level of risk. Cyberattacks are intended to disrupt the availability of services. The more people an attack can affect, the more attractive the organisation becomes as a target.”

Petri Kukko
Head of Information Security, HSL

Public transport cybersecurity requires continuous preparedness

Cybersecurity preparedness and stronger internal capabilities are essential because HSL’s customers must be able to use its services around the clock.

HSL operates in a particularly demanding information security environment. Thousands of ticket readers on public transport vehicles and at stations form a continuously connected Internet of Things system. At the same time, passengers expect every device and digital service to provide a seamless user experience.

Pekka Ryhänen, an IQI specialist, says that the scale and diversity of HSL’s services make the collaboration particularly interesting.

“HSL’s services extend across a wide range of areas, so managing their cybersecurity requires expertise in several disciplines. Information security must be understood from administrative, technical and payment security perspectives.”

Pekka Ryhänen
Specialist, IQI

Cybersecurity work with a visible impact on everyday life

According to Ryhänen, developing HSL’s cybersecurity and managing its risks is meaningful work for IQI’s specialists.

“HSL is a well-known organisation, and many of our specialists use its services every day. The work feels particularly meaningful when its impact is visible in our own daily lives.”

Pekka Ryhänen
Specialist, IQI