Jerel Dent
CYSE 300T
October 27, 2024
The importance of protecting SCADA Systems
Introduction
Supervisory Control and Data Acquistion (SCADA) “refers to centralized systems that control and monitor entire sites, or are complex systems spread out over large areas. Nearly all the control actions are automatically performed by the remote terminal units (RTUs) or by the programmable logic controllers (PLCs)”. These systems are vulnerable to attacks and threats because of their outdated software, poor remote access, and weak authentication procedures. “There are two major threats, and they are: unauthorized access to software (by human access or intentionally induces changes, virus infections, or other problems that can affect the control host machine), and packet access to network segments that host SCADA devices”.
SACADA Systems Vulnerabilities
“Common vulnerabilities in these systems include unpatched software, unsecure remote access, weak authentication mechanisms, and outdated operating systems”. The safety and dependability of autonomous cars may also be jeopardized by configuration errors and gadgets that are exposed to the Internet, which can provide opportunities for cybercriminals to take advantage of.
The safety of the economy, the public, and individual health could all be impacted by a successful security breach that interrupts these systems and services. ICS systems are increasingly being targeted by attackers, so enhancing cybersecurity measures is important for protecting these key functions and minimizing the effects of any attacks. Threat organizations have shown that they are capable of using spear phishing, remote access tool exploitation, and other attack routes to penetrate industrial control systems.
Securing SCADA Systems
“Network segmentation and firewalls are crucial for restricting communication paths and limiting potential attack vectors”. Organizations can reduce the dangers presented by cyberattacks and ensure safe and dependable performance of autonomous emergency vehicles by addressing these essential safety controls.
VPNs and multi-factor authentication are examples of secure solutions that companies should use when allowing remote access to ICS components that control autonomous emergency vehicles. By encrypting information, confirming user identities, keeping an eye on activity, and limiting access permissions, these steps improve security.
SCADA Architectures
SCADA’s architecture is a vital component that allows for remote management of industrial processes. SCADA has been through three new and improved architecture generations: “Monolithic”, “Distributed”, “Networked”.
“Computing was done on mainframe systems in the first generation. Vendors of remote terminal units (RTUs) created wide area networks that facilitated communication with RTUs. At the time, communication protocols were used in a confidential manner. There was a backup mainframe that was attached at the bus level in case the mainframe system failed”.
“The second generation involved the distribution of processing among several stations and the real-time sharing of information between them over LAN. Compared to the stations used in the first generation, they were smaller and less expensive”.
“This generation is responsible for the SCADA system in use today. WAN protocols, such as Internet Protocols (IP), are used to communicate between the system and the master station. The system is more vulnerable since networked SCADA systems and the standard protocols they utilize can be viewed online. However, security enhancements can be implemented in SCADA systems using security approaches and established protocols”.
Conclusion
In conclusion, SCADA systems monitor and control important infrastructure but are very vulnerable to threats and attacks. These vulnerabilities can lead to network breaches, which puts public safety, the economy, and individual health all at risk. To mitigate these threats, vendors should implement firewalls, network segmentation, VPNs, and multi-factor authentication. This increases the safety and reliability of the SCADA systems and minimizes the chances of an attack.
SOURCES
https://publicsafety.ieee.org/topics/cybersecurity-of-critical-infrastructure-with-ics-scada-systems