The National Security Agency (NSA) has released a comprehensive guide outlining six essential principles for enhancing cybersecurity in operational technology (OT) environments. This initiative, developed in collaboration with cybersecurity agencies from several allied nations, aims to bolster the security of critical infrastructure sectors such as water, energy, and transportation.
Key Takeaways
Safety is Paramount: Prioritize safety in OT environments to prevent catastrophic failures.
Knowledge of the Business is Crucial: Understand what needs protection and ensure leadership is informed.
OT Data is Extremely Valuable: Protect configuration data and segregate OT data from corporate networks.
Segment and Segregate OT Networks: Reduce risk by isolating OT from IT and internet connections.
Supply Chain Must Be Secure: Assess and manage risks associated with vendors and devices connected to OT networks.
People are Essential for OT Cybersecurity: Foster a strong cybersecurity culture and ensure trained professionals are available.
The document titled "Principles of Operational Technology Cyber Security" serves as a vital resource for organizations looking to design, implement, and manage OT systems effectively. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining business continuity while ensuring safety and security in critical infrastructure.
Safety Is Paramount
In OT environments, the stakes are significantly higher than in corporate IT systems. Changes to critical infrastructure can lead to severe consequences, including threats to human life and environmental damage. Therefore, OT managers must ensure that systems can be restarted and backed up to minimize downtime. Safety considerations should permeate all tasks, even routine cyber hygiene activities.
Knowledge of the Business Is Crucial
Organizations must have a clear understanding of what needs protection. This includes identifying essential services and ensuring that leadership is aware of cybersecurity practices. Effective strategies may include developing incident response playbooks and business continuity plans, as well as implementing clear labeling systems for critical components.
OT Data Is Extremely Valuable
Given that OT infrastructure rarely changes, safeguarding configuration data is critical. This includes network diagrams, operational sequences, and schematics, which can provide adversaries with insights into system vulnerabilities. Organizations should segregate OT data from corporate environments and maintain strict access controls to mitigate risks.
Segment and Segregate OT Networks
To reduce the risk of cyber threats, organizations should segment OT networks from both the internet and IT networks. This includes isolating vendor connections and ensuring that OT networks are not exposed to unnecessary risks from external systems. Proper segmentation can significantly enhance the security posture of critical infrastructure.
Supply Chain Must Be Secure
Vendors can introduce vulnerabilities into OT environments, making it essential for organizations to understand the devices connected to their networks. This includes everything from printers to building management systems. Organizations should assess the cybersecurity maturity of their vendors and ensure that all devices are accounted for and managed appropriately.
People Are Essential for OT Cybersecurity
A robust cybersecurity culture is vital for effective OT security. Organizations must ensure that trained professionals are available to respond to incidents and that a diverse range of skills and experiences is represented within their teams. Emphasizing security culture across all roles, including IT and field operations, is crucial for maintaining a secure OT environment.
The NSA's six principles provide a comprehensive framework for organizations to enhance their cybersecurity posture in operational technology environments. By prioritizing safety, understanding their business needs, protecting valuable data, segmenting networks, securing the supply chain, and fostering a strong cybersecurity culture, organizations can better safeguard critical infrastructure against evolving cyber threats.
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Sources
NSA Releases 6 Principles of OT Cybersecurity, Dark Reading.