Cyber Security Challenges In Industrial Control System

Industrial Control Systems serve as the essential infrastructure supporting some of society’s most vital services. Think of Industrial Control Systems as the “spine” of society’s most crucial services. From power plants and manufacturing facilities to transportation systems and critical infrastructure, ICS forms the backbone of many essential processes. If Cyber Threats manage to breach their defense then it can have severe consequences for our economy, society, and politics.

But, Before Anything Else, What is an Industrial Control System (ICS)?

Industrial Control System (ICS) is an umbrella term that details various types of control systems and related instrumentation, which include the devices, systems, networks, and controls used to operate and automate industrial processes. The fundamental elements within Industrial Control Systems encompass Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA).

Let’s delve into some of the foremost challenges and threats that currently confront Industrial Control Systems (ICS), particularly the cybersecurity problems they encounter.

What are the Cyber Threats to Industrial Control Systems?

Here are the top ten Cyber Threats that are posing problems in the ICS operating system and its network.

Outdated System

A significant issue with many ICSes is that they were initially crafted during a time when cybersecurity wasn’t a top priority. Integrating modern security measures into these older systems can be quite challenging. Additionally, the software used by ICSes is often outdated and lacks the robust security features available in today’s software, like robust authentication, encryption, and safeguards against web application threats such as cross-site scripting, ransomware, and hamper network security.

Scanning Distance

Scanning allows hackers to thoroughly explore an ICS network, aiming to discover valuable data and services across a range of IP addresses. It’s like virtual detective work to locate possible entry points for exploitation within the ICS security. This is crucial for both understanding the network’s vulnerabilities and safeguarding against potential threats.

System That Lacks Updates And Patches

Updating systems, or patching them, typically involves downtime. However, the challenge arises when the systems in question provide essential services that can’t afford disruption. This issue is amplified by the fact that numerous older ICS systems lack automatic failover mechanisms. Consequently, a lot of organizations opt not to apply patches, leaving critical security vulnerabilities unaddressed, which can be exploited by emerging security threats.

Combining IT And ICS Systems

When it comes to Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Operational Technology (OT) systems, they’re usually under the jurisdiction of a distinct team separate from the IT department. As these ICS systems get upgraded, they demand a higher level of IT expertise. The process of integrating IT and OT, essentially aligning ICS with IT systems, calls for a reimagining of roles, reorganization, and the more effective sharing of information, all of which can generate challenges and friction, especially in the context of information security.

Presenting The Argument For ICS Security

Advocating for ICS security involves highlighting its vital role in protecting critical infrastructure from cyber threats. It’s not just about technology; it’s a matter of national and organizational security, as ICS manages crucial services like water and power. To secure ICS, proactive investment, strict standards, and ongoing vigilance are essential. However, measuring returns in terms of traditional ROI can be challenging; instead, focus on loss prevention as a more suitable metric for justifying ICS security funding.

Malware And Viruses

Viruses are a significant peril in the realm of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) cybersecurity. These malicious programs can infiltrate ICS networks through various entry points, exploiting vulnerabilities and potentially causing disruptive consequences. These concerns encompass operational disruption, data manipulation, safety risks, and rapid propagation of malware within ICS networks.

Traditionally, ICS malware threats involved physical access, but connecting ICS to the internet has expanded the risk landscape. Defending ICS against malware, including notorious examples like Triton and Stuxnet, is essential. Everyday malware, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and DDoS attacks all demand robust mitigation measures to safeguard critical infrastructure.

Long-lasting And Persistent Threats

Persistent and enduring threats in Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are ongoing cybersecurity threats, known for their longevity and adaptability, causing heightened concern for critical infrastructure operators. Examples include Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), which employ sophisticated tactics over extended periods, Insider Threats originating from within organizations, and Nation-State Actors engaged in cyber-espionage or infrastructure disruption. These threats necessitate robust security measures, continuous monitoring, and proactive defenses to safeguard ICS environments against persistent attacks.

Lateral Assaults And Attacks In ICS And IT

Lateral assaults, common in both IT and ICS Control Systems, involve attackers moving horizontally within a network after initial access. They seek to compromise additional systems, potentially causing significant damage and evading detection through stolen credentials or system vulnerabilities. In IT, this can lead to data breaches or service disruptions. In ICS, lateral assaults are especially concerning, risking the compromise of critical ICS control system components. According to experts from CDR Engineers Australia, properly securing the interconnection between ICS and IT systems is crucial to prevent lateral attacks from spreading across both networks.

Switching On The Extended Updating Mode

In this attack scenario, cybercriminals infiltrate an ICS network and trigger the firmware update mode in a sensor or device. Instead of completing the update, they leave the hardware in a standby state. Exploiting this situation, the attackers disable the device’s usual functions, such as process monitoring. This provides them with an opportunity to compromise the device and the entire system without detection.

Default Settings And Credentials

Attackers often employ a straightforward yet effective tactic: they search for default or hardcoded usernames and passwords in manufactured devices. Once they discover these credentials, they exploit them to gain unauthorized access to a company’s Industrial Control System (ICS) network. This method capitalizes on the oversight of not changing default settings, emphasizing the importance of robust password management and regular device configuration checks. Interactive employee training on cybersecurity is also crucial to prevent such breaches.

Now that we’ve discussed significant threats and challenges in the realm of Industrial Control Systems (ICS), let’s explore the preventive measures for addressing security threats in ICS environments.

How To Protect ICS From Cyber Threats?

Identify And Evaluate Basic Threats

Regularly assess system configurations, patch levels, known vulnerabilities, and potential threats. Integrate threat intelligence to stay updated on evolving attack strategies targeting ICS security, ensuring effective defense strategies are in place. Identifying basic threats can help tackle cyber security challenges early on.

Restrict Access

Enhance security by restricting device access, and permitting only documented and necessary connections. Secure remote access using firewalls, VPNs, multi-factor authentication, and intrusion detection. Safeguarding ICS connections in remote settings with limited connectivity is pivotal to mitigating risks effectively.

ICS Security Architecture

To establish secure and dependable ICS environments, companies should adhere to recognized regulatory standards. These encompass general frameworks like NIST Cybersecurity Framework, NIST 800-82, and ISA 99.02.01/IEC 62443, as well as industry-specific ones such as NERC SIP, TSA Pipeline Security Guidelines, and CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) guidance. Access control is a vital component, involving physical and electronic measures to manage network, device, and service access, including defining security roles, crafting policies, and implementing authentication procedures.

Perform Audits

In the ever-evolving landscape of ICS networks, ensure security by routinely scanning for unpatched software, admin privileges, and insecure configurations. Periodic testing and audits are pivotal for identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses across the system’s life cycle. These assessments are vital for managing ICS network security and effectively mitigating risks associated with industrial control systems.

Security Provider Cyber-Physical System(CPS)

Cyber-Physical System (CPS) security in Industrial Control Systems (ICS) focuses on safeguarding the convergence of physical processes and digital technologies. It integrates measures to protect critical infrastructure by combining network security, physical security, and real-time monitoring. CPS security ensures the reliability and safety of ICS components, preventing cyberattacks, system malfunctions, and unauthorized access. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity and resilience of industrial processes while mitigating cybersecurity threats.

Network Segmentation

Network segmentation in ICS is crucial for security. It involves dividing the network into segments, each with unique security measures. This strategy contains breaches and prevents them from affecting the entire network. Segmentation can be based on data sensitivity, isolating highly sensitive data for enhanced protection. The goal is to create discrete security zones, limiting the impact of potential attacks and managing ICS security effectively.

Modify Default Credentials

Replace the default admin username and password with your own new username and password for every device to prevent unauthorized access. Change the default management rules and procedures that are used to control hardware, firmware, software, and documentation changes. To safeguard the ICS from unapproved modification before, during, and after commissioning, it is constructed in this manner.

ICS vs. IT Threat Intelligence

Operational networks share Cybersecurity principles with enterprise IT networks but differ vastly. Particularly, Industrial Control System (ICS) threat intelligence addresses notable results of breaches. ICS threat intelligence can be classified into three categories:

Interested Adversaries

Intelligence on the movements of enemies who have an interest in the control system

Direct ICS Impact

Intelligence in problems that without deviation have an impact on the ICS.

Indirect ICS Impact

Intelligence on threats that may or may not have a direct influence on ICS but can pose a threat to the operation of the ICS.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Industrial Control Systems security is crucial in defending against potentially devastating cyberattacks. Securing these systems demands a proactive approach, involving risk identification, asset protection, attack detection, and incident response. While no guarantees exist against threats like ransomware, maintaining vigilance and continually assessing controls; both internal and external partners are imperative for effective cybersecurity against evolving Cyber Threats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common Cyber Security vulnerabilities in industrial control systems?

Some of the commonly occurring vulnerabilities in the ICS are:

• Buffer Overrun
• Inadequate User Authentication
• Ineffective Passport Policies, etc.

What makes it challenging to protect our industrial control systems from vulnerabilities?

Once attackers gain access to the ICS network, they can easily transfer control logic to the industrial controller or alter its setup. As the attacker uses specialized proprietary vendor-specific protocol, there’s no one-size-fits-all way to track what they’re doing.

What are the key challenges in developing an effective cybersecurity system?

Cyber Security is now one of the most essential components of the country’s overall national security in its various operating fields. Some of the key challenges in making an advanced Cyber Security problem are:

• Ransomware Evolution
• Advancement in AI
• IoT threats
• Blockchain Revolution.

What are preventive controls in Cyber Security?

Preventive control is a control system designed to be used prior to any possible threats and to decrease the likelihood of a successful threat event. It includes encryption, firewalls, various policies, etc. Some preventive controls in Cyber Security are as follows:

• System Hardening
• Software Patching & Updates
• Malware Detection / Prevention.