As industrial operations become more connected, the risk of cyber threats targeting
critical systems increases. Asset owners must ensure that their Industrial Control
Systems (ICS) and Operational Technology (OT) are designed, maintained, and operated
to minimize cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
OT/ICS cybersecurity requires a structured approach to protecting industrial systems
from cyber threats that could lead to safety or operational disruptions. It focuses on safeguarding critical infrastructure by implementing security measures to prevent, detect, and mitigate cyber incidents that could compromise industrial processes.
In industrial environments, cyber safety plays a crucial role alongside cybersecurity. While cybersecurity broadly addresses the protection of data, networks, and systems, cyber safety specifically focuses on preventing physical harm, environmental impact, and operational hazards caused by cyber incidents. In industries such as oil and gas, chemicals, and manufacturing, where cyber threats can directly lead to fires, explosions, or equipment failures, cyber safety ensures that security measures align with safety-critical objectives.
A key element of OT/ICS cybersecurity and cyber safety is ensuring the resilience of safety-critical systems. This includes Cybersecurity Risk Assessments (CSRA), defining security requirements, and implementing protective measures in line with standards such as IEC 62443. Cyber threats impacting safety systems, such as Emergency Shutdowns (ESD) or Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), must be identified and mitigated to ensure safe and reliable operations.
ICS/OT cybersecurity Related Studies
initial cybersecurity risk assessment
An initial cybersecurity risk assessment involves identifying and evaluating cyber threats to Industrial Control Systems (ICS). It defines the System under Consideration (SuC), assesses vulnerabilities, and determines the required Security Level Target (SL-T) based on risk. This assessment lays the foundation for implementing appropriate cybersecurity controls to mitigate risks to an acceptable level. Both applicable for legacy and new projects.
Detailed cybersecurity risk assessment
A detailed cybersecurity risk assessment builds on the initial assessment by performing an in-depth analysis of threats, vulnerabilities, and potential attack scenarios for the System under Consideration (SuC). It evaluates the effectiveness of existing security measures, identifies gaps, and determines specific countermeasures to achieve the required Security Level Target (SL-T). This assessment ensures a risk-based approach to cybersecurity, aligning protections with operational and safety requirements.
Vulnerability assessment
A vulnerability cybersecurity assessment identifies and evaluates weaknesses in Industrial Control Systems (ICS) that could be exploited by cyber threats. It involves analyzing system architecture, configurations, and known vulnerabilities in hardware, software, and network components. The assessment helps prioritize remediation actions to reduce exposure and improve the overall cybersecurity posture.
gap/compliance assessment
A GAP/compliance assessment evaluates how well an organization's security measures align with relevant standards or internal policies. It identifies deficiencies (gaps) in policies procedures, and technical controls compared to required security levels.
Security level allocation
Security level allocation involves assigning a required Security Level Target (SL-T) to Industrial Control System (ICS) components based on identified cyber risks. It ensures that each system, zone, or conduit meets the necessary security requirements to mitigate threats. This process aligns cybersecurity protections with operational and safety needs while maintaining a defense-in-depth approach.
A Cybersecurity Requirement Specification (CSRS) defines the security controls and measures needed to protect an Industrial Control System (ICS) based on its identified risk and Security Level Target (SL-T). It ensures that cybersecurity requirements are systematically documented, similar to the Safety Requirement Specification (SRS) in IEC 61511 for functional safety.
