New AI Tool Announced for Protecting Industrial and Utility Systems

Dragos, a cybersecurity company, announced a new artificial intelligence capability called EmberAI this week. This tool is designed to protect operational technology systems, which are the computer systems that control physical infrastructure like power plants, water treatment facilities, and manufacturing equipment. The AI is built using Dragos' large collection of cybersecurity data specifically focused on these industrial systems. This development doesn't directly affect your home computers or personal devices. However, it matters to families because operational technology runs the critical infrastructure you depend on every day. This includes your electricity, water supply, natural gas, and even traffic lights.

When these systems are better protected from cyberattacks, your essential services are more reliable and less likely to be disrupted by hackers or foreign adversaries. You don't need to do anything in response to this announcement. The companies and utilities that operate critical infrastructure systems will decide whether to use tools like EmberAI. These are business-to-business security products, not something consumers purchase or install. Your role is simply to stay aware that infrastructure security is an ongoing concern and that companies are working to address it.

What you can do for your family is maintain basic emergency preparedness. Keep flashlights, batteries, and a few days of drinking water on hand in case of any service disruptions, whether from cyberattacks, storms, or other causes. Have a battery-powered or hand-crank radio available. Keep important phone numbers written down since your devices may not work during power outages. These simple preparations help your family stay safe regardless of why essential services might be temporarily interrupted.