Cybersecurity in Rail

Protecting Critical Infrastructure in the Digital Age hosted by IET Victoria Network

Rail is one of the most vital forms of critical infrastructure, carrying millions of passengers and goods every day. But as the industry modernises with automation, big data, and the “Internet of Trains,” it is becoming an increasingly attractive target for cyber-attacks. From ransomware to impersonation and denial-of-service, rail systems face threats that could disrupt operations, compromise safety, and damage public trust.

Join Chris Mennen, Cybersecurity Manager for major rail projects in Australia and abroad, as he explores the evolving cyber threat landscape in the rail sector.

In this session, Chris will discuss:

• Why rail networks are such a challenging target to defend
• Lessons learned from real-world cyber-attacks in rail
• The role of global standards such as EN 50701 and IEC 62443 in protecting Operational Technology
• How human factors remain both the greatest vulnerability and the key to resilience
• Emerging innovations — AI, automation, and connectivity — and what they mean for future rail security

This talk will highlight both the threats and opportunities in building secure, resilient, and human-centered rail systems.

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Chris Mennen

MBA | MACS CP (Cyber Security) | CITP MBCS | MIET | Veteran - Safety and Cyber Security Consultant at SEL Rail Systems

Chris is a Cyber Security Leader with nearly 2 decades of successful experience in the Australian Defence Force - Army.

His experience from System Administrator/Engineer to leading and developing the Cyber Security capability within the ADF. He is recognised consistently for performance excellence and contributions to successes in the Defence IT and security industry. He was awarded an Army gold commendation for his efforts within the Cyber Security community. Chris’s strengths are in leadership, security development and project management. He is an extremely versatile and adaptable person, with a broad range of experience in both technical support and operation planning. He can resolve problems quickly, delivering high levels of stakeholders’ satisfaction. As a proficient Cyber Security Leader, Chris is strategic in organising and executing projects and tasks, whilst incorporating the expectations of a client, team or the individual. He effectively trains users and support process improvements to a large range of systems and software.

Chris is also a dedicated mentor for organisations such as CSU, AWSN, IMNIS, and BCS, extending his expertise across IT, Cybersecurity, and AI. He is well-versed in business practices and IT standards such as ITIL, NIST, military equivalents and rail communication standards. He has spoken at multiple cyber security conferences inside and outside of the military, such as the IRSE, Engineering Australia, CyberCon, B-Sides, ADF Cyber Gap and various summits.

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