What are Holistic Security Strategies for Industrial Control Systems?
A holistic ICS security strategy is an all-encompassing approach to protect and defend these critical systems from cybersecurity threats and other risks. With vendors, manufacturers have many options to reach this primary security objective.
Critical Elements of a Holistic ICS Security Strategy
Perform Regular Risk Assessments
Conducting a detailed risk assessment to identify vulnerabilities and consequences of prospective cyber-attack-related events on the ICS ecosystem, is crucial. Based on the importance of the assets and operations, this assessment assists with prioritizing safety measures.
Establish a Detailed Asset Inventory
Creating a comprehensive asset inventory list is a crucial procedure with various advantages for operational effectiveness, security, compliance, and efficient management of industrial processes. It enables organizations to make well-informed decisions, reduce risks, and keep vital systems reliable.
Systematize Network Segmentation
Applying segmentation across a network involves splitting the manufacturing communication network into smaller segments or zones, each isolated with its specific purpose and level of security. This approach contrasts with an unsegmented network where all devices and systems are connected within the same zone.
By effectively breaking down vital systems from less critical ones by isolating various devices and data, the segmentation of networks strives to enhance protection, control, and performance. This procedure improves security and guarantees effective network administration. Its main objective is to separate various components, protecting crucial systems and enhancing overall network performance.
This curtails attackers' movement and lessens the impact of a successful cyber breach.
Establish Access Control
Implementing strict access controls and role-based permissions ensures that only authorized personnel can access and modify critical systems. Security based on the practice of Least Privilege is a robust method of implementing access control.
The cybersecurity practice: Least Privilege, focuses on giving people, systems, or applications only the minimal permissions and access rights required to carry out their intended responsibilities.
Applying Timely Software Patches
ICS's security, stability, and functioning must be maintained by regularly applying security fixes to ICS components, as described on waters.com. It is a crucial component of an all-encompassing cybersecurity strategy meant to preserve crucial infrastructure, safeguard data, and reduce risks that could arise.
Deploy an ICS Network Monitoring Solution
Manufacturing sectors must recognize and reduce security risks to their manufacturing lines. They must stop cyber hazards that result from staff errors, mishaps involving third parties, or threat actors acting maliciously.
By doing this, they can ensure the security of their workers and guard against disruptions to factory operations. This is achieved through real-time detection and reaction to anomalies or suspicious activity.
Implement an Incident Response Plan
Creating a clear incident response strategy to handle and successfully minimize cyber threats when they do occur. Roles, responsibilities, and procedures for what to do during a security breach should all be part of this strategy.
Conduct Regular Security Awareness Training
All employees who operate and maintain ICS systems should receive regular training on security awareness to improve their comprehension of security threats and best practices. ICS components should also be protected physically by security measures, and vigilant employees, to prevent theft, tampering, and unauthorized access.
Vet External Supplier Security
Evaluating the security stance of external vendors and suppliers delivering components and services to the ICS environment, verifying they do not introduce extra vulnerabilities.
Drive Regulatory Compliance and Standards
In a manufacturing business, establishing regulatory compliance is a strategic requirement with numerous advantages. It defends against financial and legal risks, improves operational effectiveness, establishes a good reputation, and promotes long-term sustainability in a fast-paced and demanding environment.
To maintain a secure and compliant ICS environment, adhering to industry-specific regulations and standards, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISA/IEC 62443, and NERC CIP, is essential.
Conclusion
A holistic security strategy recognizes that ICS security is not just about implementing individual security technologies but also requires a coordinated and integrated approach considering technical, operational, and human factors. By adopting such a strategy, organizations can better protect their industrial processes, prevent disruptions, and ensure the continuity of critical operations in the face of evolving cyber threats.