The transportation sector in Indonesia has become a primary target for cybercriminals, highlighting the urgent need for robust security measures. Check Point Software Technologies reported that the industry suffered an average of 11,548 weekly attacks per organization over the past six months. This alarming trend underscores the increasing risks associated with the country’s push for digitalization in critical infrastructure.

Ransomware has already disrupted over 210 public services, including immigration systems at airports, according to the Temporary National Data Center (PDSN). Such incidents emphasize vulnerabilities that could affect economic stability and public trust. As Teong Eng Guan, Director of Southeast Asia and Korea at Check Point, noted, successful cyberattacks in transportation can cripple critical systems, compromise passenger and staff safety, and expose sensitive data.

Among the most prevalent threats are Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, often linked to geopolitical tensions or sophisticated hacking groups. These attacks can disrupt essential public transportation systems, such as trains and airports, paralyzing operations and causing widespread economic repercussions.

Emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) present further challenges, as they increase the sophistication of cyber threats. Cybersecurity experts emphasize the importance of advanced threat detection, zero-trust frameworks, and regular vulnerability assessments to bolster defenses. For example, sandboxing and anti-ransomware tools can identify and block complex attacks, while network segmentation helps contain breaches.

Beyond technical solutions, collaboration between policymakers, local businesses, and global technology providers is critical. Training initiatives to raise awareness about phishing and other attack vectors should be prioritized. A culture of vigilance, combined with multi-layered security strategies, can help mitigate risks and ensure the resilience of Indonesia’s transportation sector.

As digital transformation accelerates, the transportation industry must adopt proactive cybersecurity measures to protect its systems and maintain public confidence. The stakes are high, but by investing in technology and fostering global partnerships, Indonesia can strengthen its infrastructure against growing cyber threats.