This paper includes and explanation of what SCADA Systems are and how they work. Along with a description of the vulnerabilities associated with these systems. It will also cover the role that SCADA applications play in mitigating risks.
SCADA Systems
The acronym SCADA stands for, supervisory control and data acquisition. This acronym is used to describe the system which is a combination of hardware and software that is used to control and monitor industrial processes and control systems. Some of those systems include things like alarm systems, water treatment, gas pipelines, some airport processes, and power generation. The systems take data from sensors and devices connected to these systems remotely which are executed by remote terminal units (RTUs) or programmable logic controllers (PLCs). The data that is collected is then configured to be translated through a Human Machine Interface, of HMI, so an operator can take action on the matter in question. (SCADA systems 2023)
Vulnerabilities
There have been a couple of adaptations to the SCADA systems since they first came about. The first generation used mainframe systems to get the job done. They were independent systems because they were not connected to any others, which made communication between systems important. A backup mainframe was also available to ensure protection if the original failed. The second generation is where some security concerns were to arise since the information was being sent through multiple systems. The third generation, which is used today, allows communication to go through Internet Protocols. This increases the vulnerability of the systems because it can be easily found through internet usage. Even as SCADA systems continue to evolve over time and become more efficient, there are still security issues present that create vulnerabilities in the processes. This causes uncertainty in the trustworthiness of these systems to handle their monitoring and controlling processes because attacks on them would create a destructive effect. (SCADA systems 2023)
Role SCADA Applications Take on Mitigating Risks
SCADA Systems are at an increased vulnerability rate, which means that they can be attacked very easily by unauthorized access and viruses. Sometimes they have no adequate protection against these threats. Security needs to be put in place that will defend the systems against cyberattacks. For example, one that can decrease the risks associated with SCADA Systems susceptibility includes only allowing authorized users to avoid unauthorized changes to the systems. Another measure that can be taken to help manage this would be to use virtual patching. Virtual patching puts them in place beforehand to reduce exploitation and vulnerability of the system. (One flaw too many: Vulnerabilities in SCADA systems 2019)
Conclusion
SCADA Systems are used for a variety of processes. They collect data and information from these systems to allow effective steps to be taken to correct things and inconsistencies. Because of the lack of security put in place to protect these systems from risks, they are at an increased vulnerability rate. Even as they have been updated through the years, the security measures still need to be improved.
References
One flaw too many: Vulnerabilities in SCADA systems. Security News. (2019). Retrieved March 26, 2023, from https://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/us/security/news/vulnerabilities-and-exploits/one-flaw-too-many-vulnerabilities-in-scada-systems
SCADA systems. SCADA Systems. (2023). Retrieved March 26, 2023, from http://www.scadasystems.net/