Cybersecurity in the Context of Moroccan Energy Companies

¹ Laboratoire Technologies et Services Industriels, École Supérieure de Technologie, Université Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Maroc
² Centre des études doctorales en sciences économie et gestion et développement durable de l’Université Abdelmalek Essaadi, Maroc
³ Materials and Subatomic Physics Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail Université, Morocco
⁴ EuRSED, O2 scientific production France

Abstract

The aim of this research is to assess the level of maturity of Moroccan companies in the energy sector in terms of cybersecurity and to identify the factors influencing their abilities to implement effective security measures to address the risks associated with cyber-attacks. To achieve this, we have adopted an exploratory approach. A questionnaire was sent to energy sector companies in Morocco to investigate their cybersecurity practices. This entails examining the current security measures in place, security policies and procedures, as well as employee training programs. Furthermore, we are exploring the human and financial factors that can influence the ability of energy companies to implement effective security measures against cyberattacks. The results clearly indicate that most of these companies demonstrate a high level of maturity in terms of cybersecurity. However, several significant factors influence their ability to implement effective security measures. Among these factors, the lack of qualified personnel, the high costs associated with acquiring and implementing security technologies, as well as expenses related to training and awareness, can be mentioned.