Industrial Control Systems (ICS) was created to save manual work and improve performance, dependability, and safety. Historically, security was achieved by creating an air separation between the OT and IT systems. Presently, the world is on its way to digitization, with all ICS devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT).
System integrators, OEMs, and asset owners have begun to embrace the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0), a concept that encompasses cyber-physical networks and the Internet of services. This whitepaper explains how businesses and organizations may develop a plan to improve advanced automation security in manufacturing.
Current Scenario in Manufacturing Industry
A typical ICS incorporates a variety of human interfaces, control loops, and remote monitoring and maintenance tools based on multilayer network topologies employing a variety of network interfaces. Using actuators, sensors, and controllers, a control loop distorts a regulated process.
Remote maintenance tools allow for executing operations and maintenance tasks from a distance, while remote monitoring tools provide visibility into process conditions from a safe location.
Humans interact with ICSs through engineering workstations, operator interfaces, and other human-machine interfaces (HMIs). Engineering workstations are used to configure, program, and test controllers before installation in the field. They are also used to develop and modify control algorithms, create graphics pages for operator consoles, and perform device configuration and parameterization.
Why is it necessary to defend ICS?
ICSs have many flaws that make them ideal targets for hackers:
Software vulnerabilities: Operational Technology (OT) networks use proprietary software and devices that are often years out of date, making them more vulnerable to attack.
Hardware vulnerabilities: ICS networks are often reliant on aging hardware that is difficult to patch or replace.
Operational vulnerabilities: Many ICSs were designed without security in mind and cannot cope with the scale or sophistication of modern cyber-attacks. HCLTech can help you identify and address the vulnerabilities in your ICSs.
Implementation issues with the security solution
Compliance: To stay compliant, manufacturers should be able to verify and track a range of requirements. Noncompliance might result in devastating fines.
OT and IT convergence: The security system should be aware of the necessary OT protocols and be able to address the particular problems that OT devices and networks provide. The smart manufacturing system will require an intelligent and integrated security solution.
Product reliability: A production-related security issue might also contribute to product deterioration when this comes to brand image. Any manufacturing interruption can cause far more harm than delayed time-to-market.
Lack of standardization: Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are increasingly vulnerable to a constantly evolving threat scenario. Threat actors using cyber warfare and espionage are now targeting ICS systems.
People’s security: People who work in manufacturing are more likely to be injured than those in other fields. Cybercriminals that disrupt networks cause more than just commercial disruption.
Fundamental Approach to secure OT environments
To protect the OT environment, keep the following factors in mind when establishing the operation plan. The seven principles are Risk Analysis, Detect, Visualize, Policy Adherence, Operational Risk Intelligence, Respond, Manage, and Restore. Moreover, Real-time Manufacturing Insights (RMI) Solution, provides operational visibility from shop-floor to top-floor. With predictive and prescriptive maintenance, it can increase business productivity with reduced cost and lower downtime.
Implementation of an integrated approach
In a modernizing journey, industries are transferring on-premise apps to the cloud, either via lift and shift or, in certain circumstances, re-platforming. Asset deployment will reduce on-premises and expand fast in the cloud. IoT security is critical and plays a crucial part in the industry 4.0 journey. Organizations are more vulnerable to cybercrime, and physical security as the Internet of Things (IoT) becomes more prevalent in business operations. Cyber and physical protection can no longer be addressed separately.
Security cameras, access control panels, alarms, and manufacturing infrastructures, including automation systems, are examples of physical assets that are susceptible when connected to the internet. These systems are simple to install. For complete OT security, we advocate integrating all existing siloed security solutions, resulting in an “ecology of trust” that uses all accessible security products.
Key Takeaways
- Remote operations are more vulnerable to cyberattacks than ever before.
- Industry 4.0 technologies are changing the landscape of OT security.
- Digital asset management solutions can help reduce the risk of cyberattacks.
- The internet has transformed manufacturing industries, opening up new remote operation and maintenance opportunities.
