Industrial Control System (ICS) is vital in Industrial process automation and management in several industries. ICS, which is at the centre of most contemporary industrial processes, comprises equipment and system components that were intentionally developed for the purpose of controlling and overseeing equipment and facilities. Because they now have higher connectivity to the network, they have emerged as significant attack targets against cyber threats. Thus, the requirement for proper security measures has been brought forth.
What is an Industrial Control System (ICS)?
The term industrial control system means using a control system to control and monitor industrial processes. Both the infrastructure and the manufacturing systems critically rely on them. Because the delivery of critical services is at stake and, as a result, the economic and safety implications can be huge, preventing unauthorised access and threats to ICS is of primary importance in cybersecurity.
The Four Major Components of Industrial Control Systems
To understand ICS, it is crucial to explore its key components and how they function together:
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
Depending on the specific application, these SCADA systems acquire real-time data from distant locations and analyse the acquired data for purposes of monitoring or controlling equipment.
- Functionality: SCADA is used in large-scale systems, including water treatment plants, oil pipelines, and the power grid.
- Cybersecurity Risks: SCADA users are always at risk of cyber attacks that target communication protocols because SCADA is a very networked system.
Distributed Control System (DCS)
DCS controls one or many functions of a specific place, such as a manufacturing firm.
- Functionality: The system decentralises the control of different tasks to different inter-connected systems and provides precise control of an industrial process.
- Cybersecurity Risks: The hacked DCS can affect operations or make some information go viral.
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
PLCs are hardened computers that are used to automate in industrial environments.
- Functionality: They handle specific functions such as machinery automation or conveyor belts.
- Cybersecurity Threats: PLC malware may cause damage to physical equipment or operational failures.
Human-machine interface (HMI)
HMI provides a graphical interface where operators can interact with the ICS components.
- Functionality: It displays real-time data, such as equipment status or process performance, which can be adjusted manually if necessary.
- Cybersecurity Risks: An insecure HMI can allow attackers to access the control system, enabling sabotage or theft of operational data.
Where are Industrial Control Systems Used?
ICS is deployed across industries where automation and process control are essential.
Key applications include
- Power Generation
- The SCADA systems are used for power generation and transmission management of the grid.
- Cybersecurity Concern: Massive Blackouts or Disrupted Supplies of Power
- Manufacturing
- The production lines are automated through the use of PLCs and DCS, and manufacturing accuracy is high.
- Cybersecurity Concern: Production will be completely disrupted by financial losses.
- Water and Waste Management
- ICS enables clean water treatment and waste removal with proper efficiency.
- Cybersecurity Concern: Contaminated water supply.
- Transportation
- Rail, airports, and sea utilise ICS in running business, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Cybersecurity Threats: Attacks can compromise timely operations and put lives at risk.
Cybersecurity Challenges in ICS
- Legacy Systems: Most ICSs still operate on old hardware and software, making them susceptible to modern cyber threats.
- Lack of Encryption: ICSs lack encryption most of the time, meaning that communications between devices are susceptible to interception.
- Increased Connectivity: With more ICSs connected to networks and the Internet of Things (IoT), their attack surface expands, increasing threats.
Best Practices for Securing ICS
- Network Segmentation: Network separation from corporate and public networks will minimise exposure to cyber threats.
- Update and Patch Management: All ICS component updates shall be ensured to avoid vulnerabilities.
- Access Control: Implement two-factor authentication to limit access only to authorised personnel.
- Incident Response Plan: Prepare a tight incident response plan to recognise, treat, and recover from cyberattacks quickly.
- Employee Training: Train employees on identifying and responding to potential cyber threats, including phishing attempts aimed at ICS.
Conclusion
Critical infrastructure and industrial processes rely on industrial control systems. However, with their connection to networks growing, they have become the most attractive target for cyber threats. An understanding of the components of ICS and the implementation of strong cybersecurity measures will help organisations mitigate risks and ensure that essential services are not disrupted. To gain expertise in securing ICS and other critical infrastructures, check out the Cybersecurity Course at the London School of Emerging Technology (LSET). This course offers deep training in modern cybersecurity practices, making you ready to face the changing nature of this field. Learn more at the LSET Cybersecurity Course.