A cybersecurity resilience framework for underserved rural SMEs in critical infrastructure supply chains: Strengthening operational continuity and threat response in digitally vulnerable regions

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in underserved rural regions, particularly those integrated into critical infrastructure supply chains, face heightened vulnerability to evolving cyber threats. These SMEs often lack access to specialized cybersecurity resources and expertise, posing significant challenges to their operational continuity and overall resilience. This paper proposes a cybersecurity resilience framework specifically tailored for these underserved rural SMEs. The framework aims to enhance their capacity to resist cyberattacks, ensure business continuity, and improve threat response within critical infrastructure supply chains. It addresses this risk by incorporating scalable cybersecurity solutions, leveraging local knowledge, and fostering collaboration with larger stakeholders to mitigate threats, accelerate response, and build resilience in these vulnerable regions. This article also highlights key considerations for enhancing cybersecurity awareness, training, and resource allocation to enable SMEs to navigate the digital landscape safely and efficiently.