Exploring the Importance of US Government’s Security Guidance for Open Source Software in OT, ICS Title: Safeguarding Critical Infrastructure: US Government Champions Security Guidance for Open Source Software in OT, ICS

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

Introduction

The US government, in collaboration with multiple agencies including the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the National Security Agency (NSA), and the US Department of Treasury, has released new cybersecurity guidance for the use of open source software (OSS) in operational technology (OT). The guidance is a part of CISA’s Open Source Software Security Roadmap and aims to improve the security of OSS implementation in industrial control systems (ICS) and other OT environments.

Understanding Open Source Software in OT

The guidance document provides recommendations and best practices for OSS in OT, acknowledging that both OT and IT systems are susceptible to cyber threats targeting control systems and critical infrastructure. These threats include vulnerabilities in libraries and components, lack of commercial support, and insufficient documentation prior to implementation. The document emphasizes the importance of keeping all OT and IT systems up to date with patches and security updates to address known exploited vulnerabilities.

Challenges in Patching OT Systems

Applying patches in OT systems can prove challenging due to the potential impact on other software. The guidance acknowledges this issue and recommends implementing a “secure-by-design” and “secure-by-default” approach to minimize risks in OT. The document also highlights the risk of threat actors attempting to exploit software updates to target the OT supply chain by replacing legitimate patches with malicious payloads. To mitigate this risk, transparency and verifiability are identified as crucial supply chain risk management aspects.

Building a Reliable Software Supply Chain for OT

The guidance emphasizes the need for a reliable software supply chain for OT systems that include OSS components. This involves ensuring that the system behaves as intended at the time of acquisition and that all OSS components have undergone appropriate vetting prior to use. The agencies recommend that the OT/ICS industry provide support to individuals and groups developing and maintaining key OSS projects, improve vulnerability management and reporting processes, implement patch deployment processes for OT/ICS environments, enhance authentication and authorization policies, and establish a common framework for using OSS.

Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative and Securing OSS in OT Web Page

The new guidance was published alongside the Securing OSS in OT web page, where organizations can access details about the Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative (JCDC) OSS planning initiative. This initiative aims to promote collaboration between the public and private sectors, including the OSS community, to enhance understanding and secure the use of OSS in OT/ICS environments. By strengthening defense against OT/ICS cyber threats, this collaborative effort seeks to protect critical infrastructure.

Editorial: Addressing the Cybersecurity Risks of Open Source Software in OT

The Importance of Secure Implementation and Management

The release of this guidance by the US government highlights the growing importance of addressing cybersecurity risks associated with open source software in OT. OT systems, which are responsible for controlling crucial infrastructure, including industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation, are increasingly targeted by cyber threat actors. In many cases, these attacks make use of vulnerabilities in the software that runs these systems.

The Benefits and Challenges of Open Source Software

Open source software offers many benefits, including cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and transparency. It fosters collaboration and allows for community input, which can lead to robust and secure code. However, the use of OSS in OT also poses unique challenges. These challenges include a lack of commercial support, potential vulnerabilities in libraries and components, and the need for proper vetting and documentation before implementation. The security guidance released by the US government aims to address these challenges and promote best practices in OSS implementation.

The Role of the Software Supply Chain in Ensuring Secure OT Systems

The guidance emphasizes the importance of a reliable software supply chain for OT systems. This includes ensuring that all components, including OSS, undergo thorough vetting and are free from malicious code or vulnerabilities. By implementing a secure-by-design and secure-by-default approach, organizations can minimize the risk of cyber attacks on OT systems. Furthermore, enhancing vulnerability management, patch deployment processes, and authentication and authorization policies will contribute to a more secure OT environment.

Conclusion: Implementing the US Government’s Security Guidance

Organizations operating in the OT/ICS industry are encouraged to review and implement the recommendations outlined in the security guidance released by the US government. By following these best practices, organizations can strengthen their defense against cyber threats targeting OT systems. It is crucial to establish a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors, including the OSS community, to collectively address the evolving challenges in OT cybersecurity. With the proper implementation of secure OSS practices, organizations can safeguard critical infrastructure and protect the systems that support our daily lives.