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Blueprints, Bids & Breaches; What’s on Tap for Today’s Builders?

September 25, 20254 min read

You build the physical world—bridges, roads, homes, high-rises. But in today’s construction industry, the foundation isn’t just concrete, it’s digital. Project management software, cloud-based bid platforms, mobile timekeeping, and shared file systems are now central to your operations.

Unfortunately, that makes your job site a prime target for cybercriminals.

Construction companies are under attack more than ever before. Why? Because they manage valuable financial data, share files across multiple vendors, and often lack dedicated IT security resources.

At Info Advantage, we’ve brewed up something memorable to help protect your business. Brews & Cyber Threats pairs the five biggest cybersecurity threats in your industry with bold beers from Rohrbach Brewing Company in Rochester, because cybersecurity should stick like rebar in concrete.

Let’s break down the digital threats your crews can’t ignore.


1. Scotch Ale + Phishing (Deceptively Smooth)

On construction sites, decisions move fast. Phishing attackers know this, and exploit it—a fake invoice, a spoofed email from the city inspector, or a fake link to blueprints. These messages look real but are designed to compromise your network.

Why It Hurts Construction Firms:

  • Login credentials stolen from project managers or superintendents

  • Malware spreads through shared cloud storage

  • Project files or permits held hostage or leaked

Info Advantage Tip:

  • Conduct regular phishing simulations for field and office teams

  • Enable MFA on cloud file platforms and time tracking tools

  • Train staff to verify unusual requests, even from “trusted” contacts

Why Scotch Ale? Rohrbach’s Scotch Ale is smooth on the surface, but stronger than it appears—just like a phishing scam. One bad click can level your project.


2. Space Kitty + Ransomware (Bold and Unforgiving)

Imagine being locked out of your scheduling software, payroll system, or blueprint database just days before a bid or inspection. Ransomware can bring your operations to a screeching halt, and that kind of delay costs more than money.

Why It Hurts Construction Firms:

  • Delays in site coordination or scheduling

  • Lost access to permits, blueprints, and bid files

  • Missed deadlines, liquidated damages, or lost contracts

Info Advantage Tip:

  • Backup critical systems daily, offsite and secure

  • Use EDR (Endpoint Detection & Response) to isolate threats fast

  • Patch laptops, tablets, and software used on-site and in trailers

Why Space Kitty? Like this unrelenting double IPA from Rohrbach Brewing, ransomware hits hard and fast. Be ready, or get flattened.


3. Blueberry Ale + Business Email Compromise (BEC) (Sweet, Crisp, and a Little Sneaky)

BEC scams often involve fake emails from “vendors” asking for updated payment info, or impersonations of your CFO during busy payout periods. The construction industry’s complex vendor relationships and fast-moving payments make it especially vulnerable.

Why It Hurts Construction Firms:

  • Fake change orders or vendor payment redirection

  • Leaked financial data or bid amounts

  • Loss of vendor trust and potential lawsuits

Info Advantage Tip:

  • Require verbal or secondary confirmation for financial changes

  • Train project and finance managers on BEC red flags

  • Monitor for email rules, forwarding, and spoofing attempts

Why Blueberry Ale? Light and approachable, Rohrbach’s Blueberry Ale seems harmless, just like a BEC email. But underneath, there’s a bite that’ll cost you.


4. Helles Lager + Insider Threats (Smooth, But Needs Guardrails)

Insider threats in construction often come from third-party subs, seasonal employees, or even a trusted foreman who isn’t aware of security best practices. A single bad actor—or accidental action—can take down entire systems.

Why It Hurts Construction Firms:

  • Plans emailed to personal accounts

  • Improper data handling or file sharing

  • Terminated employees retaining access to jobsite tech tools

Info Advantage Tip:

  • Apply role-based access to digital plans and project software

  • Immediately revoke credentials when employees or subs leave

  • Monitor file access and behavior logs for irregularities

Why Helles Lager? Rohrbach’s Helles Lager is smooth and dependable, like your top site lead. But even the best teams need boundaries.


5. Vanilla Porter + Cloud Misconfigurations (Complex, Layered, and Needs Precision)

Construction companies now rely heavily on cloud-based tools for scheduling, collaboration, document storage, and change orders. But one wrong setting, and suddenly your plans, contracts, or financials are public.

Why It Hurts Construction Firms:

  • Exposure of sensitive client or project data

  • Unsecured cloud storage of contracts or site details

  • Loss of compliance or licensing violations

Info Advantage Tip:

  • Conduct quarterly cloud security reviews

  • Set permissions to “least privilege” as your default

  • Enable access logs and alerts for unusual behavior

Why Vanilla Porter? This richly layered Rohrbach brew is all about balance. Cloud misconfigurations, like an unbalanced recipe, can leave a bitter aftertaste.


Final Sip: Secure Your Build from the Ground Up

Construction firms are being digitally attacked, right in the middle of active jobs. From ransomware delays to leaked bids, one breach can cost millions and ruin your reputation.

Let Info Advantage help you build smarter and safer.

We’re also just weeks away from our Cybersecurity & Craft Beer Tasting Event at Rohrbach Brewing Company in Rochester. Guests will enjoy all five featured beers, expert security insights, and the chance to win VIP prizes.

⚠️ Spots are limited—reserve your seat today here: https://www.info-adv.com/upcoming-event-october-2025

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