Operational technology (OT), industrial control systems (ICS), and supervisory control and data acquisition systems (SCADA) represent systems used to monitor and manage manufacturing equipment or industrial process assets and play a vital role in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of industrial processes and critical infrastructure. These systems have a long lifespan and were originally designed to communicate via isolated networks. However, as modern manufacturing and production environments have become increasingly connected, the physical isolation of these systems has become challenging at best.
Ensuring the cyber security of OT, ICS, and SCADA systems is paramount due to their critical roles in industrial and infrastructure operations. These systems control everything from manufacturing processes to power grids, water supply, and transportation networks. A cyber attack can lead to severe disruptions, production downtime, environmental hazards, and even threats to public safety.
OT/ICS/SCADA cyber security testing is a specialised assessment and evaluation process designed to identify and address vulnerabilities, threats, and weaknesses in OT, ICS and SCADA systems. The primary objectives of OT/ICS/SCADA testing is similar to many other cyber security techniques and includes vulnerability assessments to identify potential weaknesses, penetration testing to simulate cyber attacks, risk assessments and more.
However, industrial control system testing needs to take into account additional factors. Specialised tools are often required for testing embedded control devices, devices can be incompatible with control network protocols, and testing can be more complicated within the live production environment. To account for these complexities and ensure systems aren't harmed in the process, OT/ICS/SCADA testing employs a more tailored approach. The result is a list of vulnerabilities categorised by risk levels to help prioritise remediation steps.
Industrial control systems are at risk from constantly changing threats if they are not properly secured, which makes regular testing paramount; there are specific scenarios when OT/ICS/SCADA testing is advised:
System Deployment
Before deploying new OT/ICS/SCADA systems, testing should be conducted to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities from the outset.
Regular Assessments
Regular cyber security testing should be performed at defined intervals to proactively detect and address emerging threats.
After Major System Changes
Testing should be conducted whenever significant changes are made, including software updates or network reconfigurations.
Regulatory Compliance
Testing is fundamental to ensure compliance with industry-specific regulations and standards.
Third-Party Connections
It's essential to verify that connections with external partners, suppliers, or vendors do not introduce security risks.
After Security Incidents
In the aftermath of a cyber security incident, testing helps identify how the breach occurred and strengthens defences to prevent future attacks.
System Retirement
Testing should be conducted to ensure that sensitive information is properly wiped and that the systems are securely decommissioned.
Ultimately, the need for OT/ICS/SCADA cyber security testing is ongoing, with an emphasis on proactive measures to secure critical infrastructure and industrial processes against evolving cyber threats.
The benefits of OT/ICS/SCADA testing include:
Protection of Critical Assets
Safeguarding vital infrastructure from cyber threats.
Reduced Downtime
Proactively addressing vulnerabilities to minimise operational disruptions.
Incident Response Plan Verification
Ensuring incident response plans are efficient and robust.
Network Security Gap Identification
Detecting access points for potential attackers.
Compensating Controls
Gaining a deeper understanding of ICS/TO-specific security measures.
Improved Compliance
Ensuring adherence to security best practices in industrial environments and supporting compliance with industry-specific security standards.
Increased Security Awareness
Raising awareness of security concerns in ICS/OT technologies.
Third-Party System Security
Validating the security of external ICS systems and software
Greater Operational Resilience
Assuring the highest level of operational resilience against cyber risks.
OT/ICS/SCADA testing offers a wide range of business benefits, including improved security, compliance and operational continuity. Ultimately, by investing in testing critical infrastructure, you're not only protecting your systems but also strengthening the overall resilience and reputation of your organisation.
Solving complex cyber security challenges comes with some serious business benefits.
To win the cyber security battle and protect your business, you need to connect next-generation technologies with business policies to create a robust security ecosystem. It’s no mean feat, but with the right support, your business can thrive.
