Is the US Government’s Security Guidance for Open Source Software in OT, ICS Effective Enough? Title: Evaluating the Effectiveness of US Government’s Security Guidance for Open Source Software in OT, ICS

US Government Releases Security Guidance for Open Source Software in OT, ICS

The US government, comprising agencies such as CISA, FBI, NSA, and the US Department of Treasury, has joined forces to provide new cybersecurity guidance for the use of open source software (OSS) in operational technology (OT) environments. The guidance, which is designed to improve the security of OSS in industrial control systems (ICS) and other OT systems, addresses various security concerns and provides best practices on the secure use and implementation of OSS.

Understanding OSS and Its Implementation in OT

The guidance document, released as a PDF, aims to promote a better understanding of OSS and its implementation in OT systems, as well as to detail best practices for secure OSS use. It acknowledges that vulnerabilities in libraries and components, lack of commercial support, and insufficient documentation prior to implementation are security concerns that both OSS and OT systems share. The guidance emphasizes the importance of keeping OT and IT systems up to date with patches and security updates to address known vulnerabilities, while acknowledging that applying patches in OT may be challenging due to potential impacts on other software.

To minimize risks in OT, the guidance recommends implementing the “secure-by-design” and “secure-by-default” approaches. These approaches emphasize building security into the design and default configurations of OT systems, respectively. The document also raises concerns about threat actors attempting to exploit software updates to target the OT supply chain and replace legitimate patches with malicious payloads. It highlights the importance of transparency and verifiability in managing supply chain risks.

Recommendations for the OT/ICS Industry

The guidance provides several recommendations for the OT/ICS industry to enhance the security of OSS in OT environments:

• Support the individuals and groups developing and maintaining key OSS projects
• Audit and improve vulnerability management and reporting processes
• Implement patch deployment processes for OT/ICS environments
• Improve authentication and authorization policies
• Establish a common framework for using OSS

The agencies emphasize that a reliable software supply chain for an OT system with OSS components is crucial for ensuring the system behaves as intended and that all OSS components have been properly vetted prior to use. They encourage the OT/ICS industry to review the guidance and implement its recommendations to strengthen defense against cyber threats.

Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative (JCDC) OSS Planning Initiative

Alongside the publication of the new guidance, the US government introduced the Securing OSS in OT web page, which provides organizations with access to information on the Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative (JCDC) OSS planning initiative. This initiative aims to foster collaboration between the public and private sectors, including the OSS community, to better understand and secure OSS use in OT/ICS environments. By strengthening defense against OT/ICS cyber threats, this collaboration will contribute to the overall security of critical infrastructure.

Editorial: Balancing Openness and Security in OT Environments

The US government’s release of security guidance for open source software in OT and ICS is a significant step in addressing the security concerns associated with the use of OSS in critical infrastructure. Open source software offers numerous benefits, such as transparency, collaboration, and cost-effectiveness. However, it also presents unique security challenges. Vulnerabilities in open source libraries and components, coupled with the lack of commercial support, increase the potential risk of cyber threats targeting OT systems.

The guidance rightly emphasizes the importance of keeping OT and IT systems up to date with patches and security updates. However, applying patches in OT environments requires careful consideration due to potential impacts on other software components. The “secure-by-design” and “secure-by-default” approaches recommended in the guidance provide a sound foundation for addressing these challenges and minimizing risks.

However, it is important to strike a balance between security and openness in OT environments. While the guidance recommends establishing a common framework for using OSS, it should not stifle innovation and restrict the use of open source solutions. Open source software has played a crucial role in driving technological advancements and fostering innovation. Therefore, any security measures should consider the need to leverage the benefits of OSS while ensuring the integrity and security of OT systems.

Transparency and verifiability in the software supply chain are critical aspects highlighted by the guidance. Trust in the supply chain is essential for ensuring that OT systems acquire and deploy OSS components that have been adequately vetted. Collaboration between industry stakeholders and a focus on auditing and improving vulnerability management processes will contribute to building a robust and reliable software supply chain.

Conclusion: Emphasizing Security in the Use of OSS in OT

The US government’s release of security guidance for open source software in OT and ICS represents a significant effort to enhance the security of critical infrastructure. By acknowledging and addressing the security concerns associated with the use of OSS in OT environments, the government demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s critical assets.

Organizations operating in OT/ICS environments should carefully review the new guidance and implement its recommendations. This will help improve the security posture of OT systems, reduce vulnerabilities, and mitigate the risks posed by cyber threats. At the same time, it is important to maintain a balance between openness and security, enabling the continued use and innovation of open source software in OT environments.