A Snapshot of the Biocybersecurity/Cyberbiosecurity Landscape (2017-2024)

Abstract

The global bioeconomy is extremely valuable, comprising healthcare, agriculture, logistics, and biotechnology, and more (Murch et al, 2018; Kircher, 2019; Khandekar & Ghosh, 2023). The increased integration of digital systems within biological domains within the modern bioeconomy has exposed vulnerabilities that exist at the intersection of cybersecurity, cyber-physical security, and biosecurity, referred to as "Cyberbiosecurity" (CBS) or "Biocybersecurity" (BCS) (Murch et al, 2018; Potter and Palmer, 2023). These respectively focus on protecting biological data and systems from cyber threats and addressing the security of cyber systems that interact with biological entities. Their landscape has evolved considerably and vulnerabilities found pose risks to infrastructure and human lives, as cyberattacks could disrupt essential bio-based and related systems such as medical supply chains, food systems, research, and all connected to it (Murch et al, 2018; Potter and Palmer, 2023). Given the complexity and interconnectedness of these domains, the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between experts in cybersecurity, biosecurity, and biotechnological innovation is more pressing than ever. Addressing these emerging threats requires a multifaceted approach combining technical safeguards with policies that enhance resilience across the bioeconomy. There is considerable benefit to viewing what work is mapped over the combined landscape. In order to map the research landscape and track the progess and explorations of this work,  research publications were compiled and analyzed using search operators including "Cyberbiosecurity," "Biocybersecurity," "Digital Biosecurity," and "Cyber-biosecurity" to identify critical trends and contributions over the past seven years.  In this we have found many different players and trends by year. This work finds that the intersections of Cybersecurity and Biosecurity presents an evolving landscape with significant benefits, novel applications, but also heightened global risks. When properly examined, our communities can meet the emerging challenges.