Exploring the Key Takeaways from Day 3 of SecurityWeek’s 2023 ICS Cybersecurity Conference

SecurityWeek’s 2023 ICS Cybersecurity Conference Focuses on Challenges and Solutions

The SecurityWeek 2023 ICS Cybersecurity Conference is currently taking place in Atlanta, with Day 3 putting the spotlight on the challenges and solutions faced by organizations in securing operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems (ICS). The conference brings together hundreds of industrial cybersecurity stakeholders to address the pressing issue of securing critical infrastructure.

Challenges in Securing OT and ICS

One of the main themes of Day 3 is the challenges organizations face in securing OT and ICS. Several presentations offer practical solutions and best practices to address these challenges. One of the sessions, hosted by Dan Kennison from Airgap Networks, focuses on building a resilient OT and ICS defense. Kennison emphasizes the importance of creating a defensible network architecture with East-West visibility, implementing multi-factor authentication, and establishing OT-IT segmentation and VPN alternatives.

Another important topic discussed during the conference is the physical protection of critical networks. Ryan Ferran, a manager and senior penetration tester at BPM, highlights the often overlooked aspect of physical security in cybersecurity. He explores the need for organizations to implement measures to protect critical networks from physical breaches.

Recommendations and Solutions

Several presenters offer recommendations and solutions to help organizations better secure their OT and ICS environments. Ron Fabela, the field CTO at Xona, delves into the attack surface associated with ICS remote services. He provides insights on identifying vulnerabilities and offers recommendations for gaining better control over remote logical access.

Aaron Blinka from HMH Pressure Control highlights the pressing need for secure systems in the offshore drilling industry, particularly for OEMs working with deepwater drillships. He discusses the challenges faced in this industry, such as limited space, tight budgets, minimal cloud connectivity, and diverse customer system interfaces.

SZ Lin of Bureau Veritas focuses on the increasing use of open-source software in ICS and the importance of securing the ICS open-source software supply chain. He highlights common pitfalls and shares best industry practices to ensure the security of open-source software used in critical infrastructure.

Importance of Internet Security in ICS/OT Environments

The conference also underscores the vital importance of internet security in ICS/OT environments. With the increasing interconnectedness of industrial systems and the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), securing critical infrastructure becomes even more critical. The conference provides a platform for experts to share their knowledge and insights on the latest threats and trends in industrial cybersecurity.

Editorial: Strengthening the Cybersecurity of Critical Infrastructure

The SecurityWeek 2023 ICS Cybersecurity Conference serves as a reminder of the continuous threats faced by critical infrastructure and the need for organizations to remain vigilant in safeguarding their OT and ICS environments. The convergence of IT and OT systems and the increasing reliance on interconnected industrial systems introduce new challenges for cybersecurity professionals.

It is essential for organizations to prioritize the security of their industrial systems and invest in robust cybersecurity measures. This includes implementing multi-factor authentication, establishing proper network segmentation, regularly assessing vulnerabilities, and implementing physical security measures. Organizations must also stay up to date with the latest industry best practices and collaborate with cybersecurity experts to address emerging threats.

Additionally, the government and regulatory bodies should play an active role in enforcing cybersecurity standards and providing guidance to industries that operate critical infrastructure. Collaborative efforts between government, industry stakeholders, and cybersecurity experts are necessary to ensure the resilience and security of critical infrastructure in the face of evolving cyber threats.

Advice for Organizations

Organizations involved in critical infrastructure should take note of the recommendations and solutions discussed during the SecurityWeek 2023 ICS Cybersecurity Conference. It is crucial to assess the current state of cybersecurity in their OT and ICS environments and identify any vulnerabilities or gaps. By implementing the recommended measures, such as proper network architecture, multi-factor authentication, and physical security measures, organizations can significantly enhance the security of their industrial systems.

Furthermore, it is important for organizations to stay informed about the latest developments in industrial cybersecurity through attending conferences, participating in industry forums, and maintaining open lines of communication with cybersecurity experts. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and organizations must be proactive in adapting their security strategies to mitigate current and future risks.

Overall, the SecurityWeek 2023 ICS Cybersecurity Conference serves as a reminder that the security of critical infrastructure is a shared responsibility. It is only through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and proactive measures that we can effectively protect our industrial systems and ensure the safety and reliability of essential services.