NiSource Joins the Asset to Vendor Network in Push to Secure US Utilities

Rhea-AI Summary

NiSource has joined the Asset to Vendor Network (A2V), enhancing its cybersecurity measures by sharing critical security data with prominent utility companies like American Electric Power. This initiative aims to strengthen third-party risk management, decreasing operational costs while bolstering the security of its supply chain for natural gas and electric utilities. With approximately 3.2 million natural gas customers and over 500,000 electric customers across six states, NiSource's involvement signals a commitment to improving cybersecurity within the utility sector, benefiting both its operations and the broader network.

Positive

• Joined the Asset to Vendor Network (A2V) to enhance cybersecurity.
• Collaboration with other major utility companies to share critical security data.
• A2V participation lowers operating costs while improving third-party risk management.

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• None.

ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- NiSource, one of America's largest fully regulated natural gas and electric utilities has joined the Asset to Vendor Network (A2V), a national cybersecurity information-sharing collaborative focused on the utility industry.

As a member of A2V, NiSource will share security data and findings with member utilities such as American Electric Power (AEP), Southern Company (Southern), and other members of the A2V Network. The shared information includes vendor cybersecurity controls assessments on companies such as Hitachi ABB Power Grids, a leading global engineering solution for power utilities in the world, and many others.

"We're excited about NiSource's participation in A2V," said Alex Santos, CEO of Fortress Information Security, which operates the Asset to Vendor Network. "Their commitment to securing their supply chain for their natural gas and electric utilities will now also benefit other member utilities who provide electricity and natural gas to their customers. The ripple effect of their participation will be enormous."

"The A2V Platform provides a superior solution to resolving our third-party risk challenges," said NiSource Chief Information Officer Mike Rozsa. "The A2V platform provides us with the tools we need to manage third party risk, and the shared information lowers our operating cost. The A2V Network is a great group of companies, and we are proud to participate, especially in these times of change in the cybersecurity industry. We champion information sharing as the best way to improve cybersecurity while minimizing operating costs."

Fortress provides security products and services to utilities covering all the lower 48 states and the District of Columbia. Companies in A2V have a combined total of more than 175,000 employees in over 80 operating companies and provide power to over 50 million consumers.

Those figures include NiSource's customers, approximately 3.2 million natural gas customers in six states (Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia), and over 500,000 electric customers in Indiana, under the Columbia Gas and NIPSCO brands.

About NiSource

NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI) is one of the largest fully-regulated utility companies in the United States, serving approximately 3.2 million natural gas customers and 500,000 electric customers across six states through its local Columbia Gas and NIPSCO brands. Based in Merrillville, Indiana, NiSource's approximately 7,500 employees are focused on safely delivering reliable and affordable energy to our customers and communities we serve. NiSource is a member of the Dow Jones Sustainability - North America Index and the Bloomberg Gender Equality Index and has been named by Forbes magazine among America's Best Large Employers since 2016. Additional information about NiSource, its investments in modern infrastructure and systems, its commitments and its local brands can be found at www.nisource.com. Follow us at www.facebook.com/nisource, www.linkedin.com/company/nisource or www.twitter.com/nisourceinc. 

About Fortress Information Security
Fortress Information Security, based in Orlando, FL, specializes in securing the supply chain and industrial assets of North American critical infrastructure.

About Asset to Vendor Network
Asset to Vendor Network is a collaborative network of utilities that share cybersecurity intelligence to secure the vast supply chains that deliver bulk electric power, IT, and mission-critical systems.

For more information, contact Adam Benson at adam@vrge.us or 202.999.9104 or Nick Noll at nnoll@fortressinfosec.com or 205.383.5595. For NiSource: Ken Stammen at kstammen@nisource.com or 614.460.5544.

 

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SOURCE NiSource

FAQ

What is the significance of NiSource joining the Asset to Vendor Network?

NiSource's membership in the A2V allows it to share vital cybersecurity information with other utility companies, enhancing overall security and reducing operational costs.

How many customers does NiSource serve?

NiSource serves approximately 3.2 million natural gas customers and over 500,000 electric customers across six states.

What companies are included in the A2V Network alongside NiSource?

NiSource collaborates with major utilities such as American Electric Power and Southern Company within the A2V Network.

When did NiSource join the A2V Network?

NiSource announced its membership in the A2V Network on November 17, 2020.

What benefits does NiSource expect from its A2V Network membership?

By joining the A2V, NiSource aims to improve its cybersecurity posture and reduce costs associated with third-party risk management.