New initiative offers threat collaboration for oil, gas industry

A new initiative encouraging information sharing among the oil and gas industries has been launched Thursday in an effort to curb threats aimed at critical infrastructure sectors.

The Oil and Natural Gas Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ONG-ISAC) will give its members the opportunity to exchange information, as well as submit information – anonymously or attributed – regarding data security incidents they've experienced. Participating organizations can also circulate threat and vulnerability information, according to a release by the organization.

Additionally, ONG-ISAC members will be notified of any “urgent” or “elevated” threats in “near real-time,” or within an hour.

David Frazier, chairman of the ONG-ISAC, said that the new initiative will provide member groups a “secure way to share information and stay connected with law enforcement agencies.”