On Track for Resilience: Assessing and Enhancing Railway Security in the Digital Age

Teresa Franziska Loreth (), Stefan Wolfgang Pickl (), Matthias Jelinski (), Walter Schmitz (), Thomas Siefer () and Friedrich Stute ()
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Teresa Franziska Loreth: Institut für theoretische Mathematik, Informatik, Operations Research, Universität der Bundeswehr München
Stefan Wolfgang Pickl: Institut für theoretische Mathematik, Informatik, Operations Research, Universität der Bundeswehr München
Matthias Jelinski: IVE—Ingenieurgesellschaft für Verkehrs- und Eisenbahnwesen mbH
Walter Schmitz: CreaLab GmbH, Feldkirchen-Westerham
Thomas Siefer: Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institut für Verkehrswesen, Eisenbahnbau und -betrieb
Friedrich Stute: Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institut für Verkehrswesen, Eisenbahnbau und -betrieb

A chapter in Dynamics of Disasters, 2026, pp 15-28 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract In an era marked by heightened digitalization and interconnectedness, safeguarding the security of railway systems assumes paramount importance. Despite historical instances of attacks from various actors, a comprehensive analysis of the system’s vulnerability has been notably absent. This paper aims to bridge this gap by undertaking a meticulous examination of potential threats in both physical and cyber realms within the railway infrastructure. The paper systematically identifies and evaluates diverse sources of attack, shedding light on their origins and ramifications. By delving into the intricacies of these vulnerabilities, the research not only raises awareness but also offers insights into underlying causal factors. Furthermore, it delineates the potential impacts of such threats on the operational integrity and safety of the railway system. A notable aspect of this analysis is the inclusion of hybrid threats, where traditional physical attacks are complemented or facilitated by cyber means, or vice versa. The emergence of hybrid threats underscores the evolving nature of security challenges in the railway domain, necessitating a multifaceted approach to risk mitigation. Moreover, the paper acknowledges newly emerging threats precipitated by the convergence of physical and cyber domains. These threats, often stemming from the increased integration of digital technologies in railway infrastructure, pose novel challenges that demand proactive responses. Drawing from the findings, the paper provides actionable recommendations for short- and medium-term security enhancements, accompanied by implementation strategies. These recommendations are tailored to address the identified vulnerabilities and mitigate potential risks effectively. In conclusion, this paper constitutes a significant contribution to fortifying the security of railway systems amidst a rapidly evolving technological landscape. By offering a comprehensive analysis of threats, encompassing both traditional and contemporary dimensions, the study equips stakeholders with valuable insights to safeguard the integrity and resilience of railway infrastructure.

Keywords: Critical infrastructure; Digitization; Hybrid threats; Cyberattacks (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-08606-8_2

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