“The Power of Collaboration: MITRE and CISA Unleash Open Source OT Attack Emulation Tool”

MITRE and CISA Release Open Source Tool for OT Attack Emulation

Introduction

The MITRE Corporation and the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have announced the release of Caldera for OT, a new open source extension to the Caldera platform. This tool is designed to help security teams emulate attacks against operational technology (OT) systems, with the aim of improving the resilience of critical infrastructure. Caldera for OT is now available for download on GitHub and is expected to expand its capabilities with new open source modules.

The Need for OT Attack Emulation

Operational technology systems, which include critical infrastructure facilities such as electricity, transportation, and water facilities, are increasingly becoming targets for adversarial attacks. Such attacks can have severe consequences, disrupting essential services and potentially causing harm to the public. Recognizing the importance of protecting these systems, MITRE and CISA have developed Caldera for OT to help defenders simulate and improve the defenses of OT systems.

The Features and Benefits of Caldera for OT

Caldera for OT is an extension of the Caldera cybersecurity platform, which provides automated adversary emulation, security assessments, and red-, blue-, and purple-teaming. Caldera for OT specifically focuses on emulating attacks against OT systems, allowing defenders to identify and eliminate weak spots. The tool also enables Factory and Security Acceptance Testing (FAT/SAT), providing an additional layer of security for industrial control systems (ICS).

The Development Process

The development of Caldera for OT was a collaborative effort between CISA and the Homeland Security Systems Engineering and Development Institute (HSSEDI). The partners simulated adversary attacks in CISA’s Control Environment Laboratory Resource (CELR) to discover adversary techniques that could be included in the extension. This iterative process allowed for the identification and mitigation of vulnerabilities in OT systems.

The Importance of Open Source Tools

The release of Caldera for OT as an open source tool is a significant development in the field of cybersecurity. Open source tools enable collaboration and knowledge sharing among security professionals, allowing for the rapid development and improvement of cyber defenses. Additionally, by making the tool freely available, MITRE and CISA are promoting accessibility and inclusivity in the cybersecurity community.

The Future of Caldera for OT

MITRE and CISA are already working on new open source modules for Caldera for OT to expand its capabilities. These new modules will cover a wider range of attacks, environments, and protocols, further enhancing the tool’s effectiveness in improving the resilience of OT systems. The continuous development and expansion of Caldera for OT reflect the commitment of MITRE and CISA to staying at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation.

Editorial

Enhancing Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure

The release of Caldera for OT marks an important step in enhancing the cybersecurity of critical infrastructure. As adversarial attacks against operational technology systems increase in frequency and sophistication, it is crucial to continuously improve cyber defenses. By enabling security teams to simulate attacks and identify vulnerabilities, Caldera for OT empowers defenders to proactively strengthen the security of these vital systems.

The Role of Open Source Collaboration

The open source nature of Caldera for OT is commendable. It promotes collaboration and knowledge sharing among cybersecurity professionals and facilitates the rapid development of effective defense mechanisms. Open source tools have the potential to level the playing field by providing access to resources and expertise that might otherwise be limited to organizations with significant financial resources. This democratization of cybersecurity is a positive development for the industry as a whole.

The Need for Constant Innovation

As cyber threats continue to evolve, it is essential that cybersecurity defenses keep pace. The commitment of MITRE and CISA to continuously develop and expand the capabilities of Caldera for OT demonstrates a proactive approach to staying ahead of attackers. This mindset of constant innovation is critical in effectively defending critical infrastructure and maintaining the security and resilience of operational technology systems.

Advice

Utilize Open Source Tools

The availability of open source tools such as Caldera for OT provides an opportunity for organizations to enhance their cybersecurity capabilities. Consider incorporating open source tools into your security strategy to benefit from the collective expertise and contributions of the cybersecurity community. Engage with the open source community, contribute feedback and suggestions, and actively participate in improving these tools for the benefit of all.

Implement Regular Attack Emulations

To ensure the resilience of your operational technology systems, consider regularly conducting attack emulations using tools like Caldera for OT. By simulating real-world attack scenarios, you can identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in your defenses and take proactive measures to address them. Conducting regular attack emulations can help you stay one step ahead of potential adversaries and strengthen your cybersecurity posture.

Invest in Collaborative Partnerships

Collaboration is essential in combating cyber threats. Forge partnerships with organizations and institutions that specialize in cybersecurity, such as MITRE and CISA. These collaborations can provide access to cutting-edge tools, expertise, and resources that can help enhance your organization’s cybersecurity capabilities. By investing in collaborative relationships, you can leverage collective knowledge and stay at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation.