What is ICS?
Industrial control systems are abbreviated as ICS. It encompasses a variety of information systems and technologies, including data-based control and surveillance systems (SCADA), distributed control systems (DCS), and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) (PLC). ICS is used in industries such as power generation, water, oil, gas and data. The primary function of ICS is to manage and control industrial operations.
What are ICS attack vectors?
In general, there are two main attack vectors for ICS. Through external networks, cybercriminals can gain access to industrial infrastructure. Alternatively, the ICS domain can be directly infiltrated by taking advantage of an employee's irresponsibility or by paying an insider. There are four possible factors causing an event in the ICS environment.
- Using old version operating systems.
- APT groups working for a country.
- Logical errors and misconfigurations in the ICS software, hardware or network.
- A disgruntled employee or an insider threat paid to steal data or sabotage the system.
To summarize:
- The first and most critical step is for those working in industrial units to become more aware of cyber security.Employees are frequently the source of attacks. Any industrial organization must invest in cybersecurity and security training.
- Update your ICS systems regularly.
- Close ports or services if you do not use them
- Restrict access to your ICS services.
- Use strong passwords
- Use encrypted protocols
- Perform penetration tests at least twice a year.
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