Industries are fast expanding. Thus, we need to strengthen industrial cybersecurity more than ever. It has to be a concern for most of us.
Because along with those industrial growth comes a greater threat from cyber attackers. So, let’s discuss how you can improve security.
Understanding your control system’s vulnerabilities and learning techniques. To defend critical infrastructure systems from cyber threats is increasingly important.
Furthermore, we’ll dive into some of the biggest threats possible and countermeasures.
Industrial cybersecurity initiates by introducing the Industrial Control System (ICS) overview.
Industrial Control System
Due to the increase in the power of technology, control systems come in handy. But with these systems, the design and purpose aren’t enough to get the deal done. Security is a must!
Industrial Control Systems (ICS) eases the workload of the company. By allowing operators to monitor and control industrial processes. This includes those in power transmission. Moreover this includes:
- Distribution
- oil and gas
- Nuclear
- Chemical
- Manufacturing
- and other industries.
Along with regular cybersecurity, ICS security is a hot topic lately. Not a day goes by without some company getting compromised. Because critical infrastructure controls systems getting infiltrated. And even personal information getting splattered across the Internet.
Let’s look at some of the trending threats. That industrial control systems face. And how do industrial cybersecurity handle the countermeasures?
Threats and Countermeasures
Malware Infection via Internet and Intranet
Countermeasures
- Maximum isolation of the different networks (segmentation). This is by firewalls and VPN solutions. To largely eliminate attack paths leading to the ICS network.
- Use of typical safeguards at the perimeter (e.g. firewalls, antivirus software) or on the ICS (e. g. application whitelisting, firewalls if applicable).
- Human Error and Sabotage
Countermeasures
- Introduction of the “need to know“ principle:
- Knowledge of system details, passwords, etc.
- As well as access to sensitive data only if necessary.
- Create a general framework for motivated, qualified, and connected staff. This is to ensure operator and administrator competence for functional.
- As well as security-specific components. Qualification and training programs, as well as awareness-raising measures.
- Moreover, this needs to be designed sustainably and should be compulsory.
- Technical Malfunctions and Force Majeure
Countermeasures
- Establishing a business continuity management. This includes aspects such as possible countermeasures. Also procedures for system recovery, alternative communication choices, and conduct of drills.
- Provision of exchange or replacement of the device.
- Social Engineering and Phishing
Countermeasures
- Use of technical security mechanisms to enforce the applicable regulations. Also for automatic detection of misconduct or attacks (e. g. device control or access control).
- Schedule periodical backups to restore data and applications in case an incident happens.
A lot of threats and risks cannot be minimized. By the implementation of technical controls alone. But rather by a combination of technical controls. Also by organizational regulations.
The importance of security to Industrial Control Systems plays a big part. In the smoothness of operation and effective system performance. However, if not performed properly, further damages may arise.
Every system requires a wall that can only not let information in, but also defend at all cost.
