The digital transformation sweeping the broadcasting industry presents a significant challenge: securing legacy broadcast systems. These older systems, crucial to daily operations, lack the security features needed in today’s interconnected world. “Legacy systems often handle vital parts of production but weren’t built for today’s threats,” notes Eric Elbaz, principal strategic engagement manager at Akamai. “Tearing them out might be too disruptive, so broadcasters are using strategies like micro-segmentation and secure overlays to keep them running safely alongside newer, more secure tools.”
Microsegmentation, a network security approach, isolates segments to contain breaches. This is vital for protecting older systems that can’t be immediately upgraded. “Implementation of these protocols is key to enhancing security,” says Sam Peterson, COO at Bitcentral, highlighting the need for integrating modern security protocols. “By partnering with a vendor experienced in legacy modernization, broadcasters can maintain operational continuity while reinforcing their security defenses, ensuring that even outdated systems are not vulnerable entry points for cyber threats,” Peterson adds.
The problem extends beyond individual workstations. Specialized equipment like playout automation and master control systems, often running older software, pose significant security risks due to patching limitations. Regular security audits are crucial. “Audits help broadcasters see the blind spots attackers might exploit,” explains Elbaz. “They’re not just about ticking a compliance box—they’re about discovering unsecured APIs, unmonitored vendor connections or legacy scripts left running in the background.”
The Trusted Partner Network (TPN) advocates for proactive measures. “Regular audits provide insights into potential risks and reinforce a proactive approach to protecting content. Cybersecurity audits help identify vulnerabilities in systems, workflow, and access controls, ensuring that security measures align with industry standards,” says Terri Davies, TPN president.
Industry data underscores the urgency. NewscastStudio’s survey ranked upgrading aging infrastructure as the top priority, revealing declining confidence in the industry’s technological adaptation. A Dalet and Caretta Research report also highlights legacy systems as a major obstacle to workflow efficiency (45% of respondents), and the M-Connect Survey by Mediagenix shows that 55% of media organizations are in the early stages of digital transformation.
Broadcasters are adopting multi-layered security strategies. However, the transition away from legacy systems demands careful planning, balancing security, operational needs, and budgets. Third-party vendors are essential. “Vendors and third-party services are key contributors to the cybersecurity of broadcast environments,” says Mélanie Langlois, product manager at Viaccess-Orca. “Their expertise in deploying integrated, adaptable solutions allows broadcasters to address diverse security challenges, especially as the landscape of digital threats continues to evolve.”
A phased approach to legacy system security, starting with a risk assessment and progressing through staged improvements, is recommended. This balances security with operational continuity.