Table of Contents
What is ICS Security?
Industrial Control Systems (ICS) security focuses on safeguarding industrial control systems from cyber threats. Also known as OT security, it encompasses various practices, including asset inventory, vulnerability management, network and endpoint protection, patch management, and user access control. This security is crucial for maintaining the integrity and availability of critical industrial processes and ensuring the safety of personnel and property.
How Does ICS Security Differ from IT Security?
ICS security is distinct from traditional IT security in several ways. It deals with devices that are sensitive to changes and includes a unique category of assets known as embedded equipment. These devices are often older and require specialized risk remediation techniques. Unlike IT security, which mainly protects information confidentiality, ICS security also focuses on industrial systems’ physical safety and operational continuity.
What is an Industrial Control System?
Industrial control systems are a broad category of computing systems used in industrial automation and processes. These systems, also called Operating Technology, SCADA, or Cyber-Physical Systems, manage the operational aspects of industrial environments like power generation, water treatment, and manufacturing. They control and monitor the inputs and outputs necessary for efficient and safe operations, often adjusting in real-time to maintain optimal performance. Historically isolated from IT networks, these systems are increasingly integrated with IT infrastructure to enhance operational efficiency, albeit at the risk of heightened cybersecurity threats.
Why Do We Need ICS Security?
The need for ICS security is clear: these systems are increasingly targeted by cyber-attacks, and the stakes are high regarding financial loss, operational disruption, and safety risks. However, the question arises: Why can’t we apply the same security measures used in IT to ICS? There are several reasons for this.
Unique Challenges of ICS Devices
First, the nature of the devices in ICS environments poses significant challenges. These include older operating systems like Windows XP or Windows 7, various embedded devices such as PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), controllers, relays, sensors, and industrial and traditional IT networking equipment. Due to their age and specialized functions, these devices often cannot be secured using standard IT security approaches.
Differing Risk Priorities
Second, the priorities in terms of risk are different. While IT cybersecurity focuses on the principles of Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability, in that order, ICS security emphasizes the safety of people and property first, followed by the availability and integrity of systems. Confidentiality, though important, is not the primary concern.
Incident Detection and Response
Third, detecting and responding to incidents within ICS environments requires a deep understanding of these systems’ unique behaviors and functions. Unlike IT systems, which can often be managed with generic detection rules and responses, ICS systems require tailored approaches to ensure that responses do not inadvertently disrupt critical operations.
Requirement for Specialized Knowledge
Lastly, securing ICS environments requires a combination of control systems knowledge and security expertise, a blend that is rare in the current job market. Many ICS were designed decades ago, and there is a notable shortage of skilled professionals who understand their operational and security needs.
Due to these factors, ICS security must diverge from traditional IT security methods and adopt a specialized approach that addresses the unique challenges of securing industrial control systems.
How Do We Achieve ICS Security?
Setting Goals and Designing a Security Program
Securing Industrial Control Systems (ICS) begins with defining clear objectives. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of frameworks to guide this process, such as the CIS Top 20, NIST CSF, and IEC 62443. Experience with numerous clients has shown that a common challenge is not just choosing a path but committing to a comprehensive program. Success comes from integrating various actions under a chosen standard, ensuring meaningful progress towards a secure ICS environment.
Integrating IT and OT for a Unified Security Approach
A critical step is bridging the gap between IT (Information Technology) and OT (Operational Technology). The solution isn’t to simply apply IT security measures to OT environments or let OT dictate security measures in isolation. Both domains have valuable insights and tools to offer. Collaboration between IT and OT is essential for developing an ICS security strategy that satisfies both technical requirements and stakeholder expectations.
Choosing a Security Platform Over Individual Tools
Adopting a security platform is a strategic move for achieving efficient and effective ICS security. This approach, endorsed by experts like Gartner, offers several advantages, including reduced ownership costs and improved risk management. A platform like Verve, among others, provides a cohesive solution that addresses the unique challenges of ICS security while maintaining the rigor and accountability of IT security standards.
In conclusion, securing industrial control systems is a feasible goal that benefits from strategic planning, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and the adoption of integrated security platforms. While the challenges are distinct, the principles of effective security management remain consistent with those in IT security, adapted to meet the specific needs of ICS environments.