Securing Passenger Information Systems (PIS) and Passenger Entertainment Systems (PES): Challenges and Solutions
Rail passengers increasingly expect a connected, informative, and personalized travel experience. Systems like Passenger Information Systems (PIS) and Passenger Entertainment Systems (PES) support this demand by delivering real-time updates, route information, digital displays, and onboard media. While these features enhance customer satisfaction, they also introduce new cyber risks that many rail operators are not fully prepared to manage.
For cybersecurity managers, these systems represent a critical but often overlooked attack surface—one that bridges operational networks with public interfaces and, in some cases, personal data.
Understanding the Risks of PIS and PES
PIS and PES are commonly connected to broader IT and operational technology infrastructure. They often rely on data feeds from centralized control centers and may allow remote updates, user input, or third-party content integration.
These characteristics make them attractive targets for attackers seeking to:
- Deface public-facing displays with misinformation or offensive content
- Use the system as an entry point into deeper network segments
- Intercept or manipulate real-time communication channels
- Gain access to passenger data or travel records
- Launch lateral movement attacks from less-secured components
Many systems were not designed with cybersecurity in mind and may lack basic protections such as encryption, access control, or secure update mechanisms.
Real-World Implications of Unsecured Systems
A compromised passenger display might seem minor, but it can cause confusion, service delays, and reputational damage. In more severe cases, if PES platforms are connected to wider onboard systems, attackers could escalate their privileges and affect critical operations.
Additionally, privacy regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the NIS2 directive demand that operators protect any personal or behavioral data collected through these systems.
Common Vulnerabilities in PIS and PES
Cybersecurity managers must be aware of the most common vulnerabilities, which include:
- Outdated software or firmware on embedded devices
- Hardcoded credentials or insecure default configurations
- Weak segmentation between passenger-facing systems and operational domains
- Lack of authentication for remote content updates
- Unmonitored third-party integration points
These weaknesses allow threat actors to tamper with content, install malicious code, or create pivot points for deeper exploitation.
Best Practices for Securing Passenger-Facing Systems
Protecting PIS and PES requires a layered and proactive approach. Key measures include:
- Network isolation: Ensure that these systems are segmented from control networks and monitored independently
- Authentication and update validation: Implement strong access controls for all update mechanisms and verify software integrity
- Real-time monitoring: Use tools that detect unauthorized changes, unexpected communication, or behavioral anomalies
- Encryption of data in transit: Protect content feeds and passenger data from interception or manipulation
- Vendor oversight: Ensure third-party providers meet security requirements and follow secure coding and update practices
These practices help reduce the risk of intrusion and limit the impact of potential breaches.
Cervello’s Role in PIS and PES Cybersecurity
Cervello enables rail operators to gain visibility into every connected component of their network, including PIS and PES systems. Our solution continuously monitors for abnormal behavior, unauthorized access, and policy violations across onboard systems.
By providing centralized analytics and automated alerts, Cervello empowers cybersecurity managers to respond quickly, isolate issues, and ensure that passenger-facing systems remain secure, functional, and compliant.
Supporting Regulatory Compliance
Passenger information and entertainment platforms often collect or transmit data that may be subject to privacy laws and critical infrastructure regulations. Cervello’s platform supports compliance by delivering audit-ready logs, incident documentation, and tools to assess risk and exposure in real time.
Conclusion: Secure Experiences Build Trust