Two OUTFRONT Chicago digital billboards were hacked yesterday.  The hacker displayed anti-semitic messages on the boards.  One message said “F*** Isreal” and the other message said “Death To Israel.”  OUTFRONT took the digitals dark as soon as it was aware of the hack.  Here’s a copy of OUTFRONT’s social media post.

Billboard Insider’s take:  If it can happen to a big public out of home company, it can happen to you.  Take this opportunity to reevaluate the security of your digital billboards.  Start by reading the OAAA’s Human Oversight is Essential for Digital Display Content.  You should also read So Your Digital Was Hacked and a recap of a digital security discussion panel at an IBOUSA Conference and Digital Billboard Security. The last item is to make sure that you have a quick way of turning off every digital billboard screen.

Billboard Insider asked Outdoorlink CEO DJ Jennings for his take on dealing with security breaches and he said this:

The biggest takeaway here is that security and redundant systems are crucial, regardless of display size, manufacturer, location, or revenue generation. While basic security measures like passwords and firewalls are standard, they are not enough. Operators often overlook the critical need for additional remote control solutions that safeguard against unforeseen risks. Independent backup tools are essential to guarantee comprehensive protection. Recent incidents underscore this necessity, affecting major manufacturers and operators alike, illustrating that no display should be neglected regarding security.

To manage these risks effectively, a reliable solution like Outdoorlink’s Smart Controllers is crucial. This system operates independently of any operating system, offering the quickest and most reliable method to shut down or blackout content if a security breach occurs. As a true third-party solution, it empowers operators to maintain full control over their own systems or players.

Some things each operator can do to make sure they don’t fall victim to hackers or ensure that they are able to rapidly respond to issue that may arise:

• Ask your display provider what security systems are in place and what the response process is to address issues should they arise.
• Ask if your screens are equipped with Outdoorlink Controllers.
• If so, ensure you have set up access within the system to make response times simpler and easier should you need to use it.
• If not, consider retrofitting so even your smaller or older screens are maintained on the same system…..so all your digital inventory is protected regardless of size, age, or manufacturer
• The biggest thing is don’t fall victim to thinking this can’t happen to you. Regardless of manufacturer or in-house security measures, redundancies and third-party solutions are a backup that we hope you never have to use, but are essential to have in case you do. As the saying goes, failing to prepare is preparing to fail. And for a few hundred dollars per screen, can you afford not to?

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