Classification of the information technology sector as a dependency for the food and agriculture sector

The purpose of this capstone project was to research the food and agriculture sector in the United States. Specifically this research was intended to identify the food and agriculture sector's dependence on the Information Technology (IT) sector. This study includes research into the technology used by the farms, haulers, laboratories, marketers and manufacturers that comprise the food and agriculture sector. This research included books, periodicals, journals and interviews with professionals within the food and agriculture sector. The research questions presented were intended to evaluate the current classification of the IT sector as a minor dependency for the food and agriculture sector and re-evaluate if the classification is currently correct. The literature review process was intended to create a fuller understanding of the current dependence of food and agriculture on technology. The literature review process also helped to identify reasons that a particular individual, business, sector or technology may be targeted for attack. This research revealed that the food and agriculture sector does have a critical dependency on the IT sector. It is recommended that further research be conducted at a more granular level in order to determine the specific cybersecurity weaknesses of the various businesses that comprise the food and agriculture sector.;Keywords: Cybersecurity, Robert L. DeCarlo Jr., cyberattack, cyberterrorism, farm, food safety.