Company: MSEX
Filing Date: 2025-02-28
Form Type: 10-K
Source: 0001174947-25-000251
Chunk: 152

Company: MIDDLESEX WATER CO
Filing Date: 2025-02-28
Form: 10-K
Item: Item 1A
Chunk 152
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 Technology Officer (CTO), with over
25 years of experience in various disciplines of information technology, oversees the cybersecurity program. Reporting to the Chief Executive
Officer, the CTO provides regular briefs to the Board of Directors (the Board) and executive management, informing them about prevention,
detection, mitigation, and remediation of cybersecurity incidents, as well as ongoing risks and threats.

In our industry, the continuous functioning of
information systems is of the utmost importance. Leveraging information technology systems, we collect, process and safeguard sensitive
data and utilize automated tools to operate our plants.

Cybersecurity threats encompass potential hazards
such as malicious code, employee misconduct, advanced persistent threats, fraud, and phishing attacks. These risks have the potential
to lead to information technology system failures, threat to water supply, or compromise of sensitive information.

Our cybersecurity program aims to protect the
uninterrupted availability of critical information technology resources. Regular assessments, conducted both internally and by third parties,
evaluate our program against industry standards, including the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Standard and
the Risk Management Framework.

Although we have not experienced cybersecurity
breaches or incidents that have significantly impacted our financial condition, results of operations, or business strategy, the effectiveness
of our measures to prevent, detect, mitigate, or recover is based on currently known threats and recovery methods. There is no guarantee
that cybersecurity breaches or incidents will not impact our business operations, strategy, financial condition, or operations.

The ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats
introduces ongoing challenges. The Company recognizes the increasing frequency and sophistication of these threats. Despite implementing
measures to secure operational and technology systems and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, the dynamic nature of cyber-attacks
and vulnerabilities implies that these defenses may not be foolproof.

Cybersecurity Risk Management Program and
Strategy

Cybersecurity risk management strategy is an integral
component of our operations and our overall risk management process. Recognizing the dynamic nature of cybersecurity threats, we have
implemented a comprehensive risk management program that aims to identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks. Our strategy involves
a proactive approach, incorporating preventative measures, continuous monitoring, and adaptive response mechanisms. We prioritize the
safeguarding of our operational network environment, sensitive data, including confidential business information and personal details
of our customers and employees. Regular assessments conducted both internally and by third parties ensure our cybersecurity program aligns
with industry standards. In addition to a dedicated cybersecurity team, we employ a defense