Chris Kaffer

Category: Operational Technology

  • CISA.gov’s Free ICS Cybersecurity Training

    CISA.gov’s Free ICS Cybersecurity Training

    As someone working in the cybersecurity field, particularly with industrial control systems (ICS), I’ve always been on the lookout for training programs that offer real-world value. One of the best resources I’ve come across is the free ICS Cybersecurity Training offered by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Whether you’re new to ICS cybersecurity or looking to deepen your expertise, CISA’s training options are an excellent resource.

    About CISA’s ICS Training Program

    CISA’s ICS Cybersecurity Training Program is designed to improve the security of critical infrastructure by educating professionals about the unique challenges and threats facing operational technology (OT) environments. The training is free, making it accessible to anyone looking to bolster their skills without financial barriers.

    Course Offerings

    CISA offers both online and in-person courses that cater to different levels of expertise:

    1. Online Training
    • Self-paced courses that cover foundational topics like ICS basics and cybersecurity principles.
    • Available through the CISA ICS Training Page.
    1. In-Person Training
    • Hands-on sessions hosted in Idaho Falls by the Idaho National Laboratory (INL).
    • Focused on immersive learning with real ICS systems.

    Popular courses include:

    • ICS Cybersecurity 101: An introduction to ICS and fundamental cybersecurity concepts.
    • Intermediate Cybersecurity for ICS: Covers network defense and secure configurations.
    • Advanced ICS Cybersecurity (301): Includes malware analysis, threat hunting, and Red Team/Blue Team exercises.

    My Experience with the Advanced ICS Cybersecurity (301) Course

    I had the privilege of completing the Advanced ICS Cybersecurity (301) course in person. Here’s what stood out:

    • Hands-On Exercises: The course provided an opportunity to work with actual ICS equipment, simulating realistic attack scenarios. This practical experience was invaluable in understanding how threats manifest in OT environments.
    • Expert Guidance: The training staff at INL were exceptional. Their depth of knowledge and ability to translate complex concepts into actionable insights were unparalleled. Beyond the curriculum, their real-world experience and passion for ICS security made the sessions engaging and highly informative.
    • Red on Blue Exercises: The course culminated in a dynamic Red Team/Blue Team exercise, allowing participants to test their skills in detecting, responding to, and mitigating simulated attacks. This interactive component was both challenging and rewarding, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and strategy.

    This course gave me a deeper appreciation for the complexities of ICS environments and how critical it is to tailor cybersecurity strategies to these systems. It’s an experience I’ll delve into further in a future post, so stay tuned!

    Why You Should Enroll

    If you’re a cybersecurity professional, engineer, or anyone responsible for securing critical infrastructure, here’s why you should consider CISA’s ICS training:

    1. No Cost: These courses are completely free, making high-quality training accessible to all.
    2. Industry-Relevant Skills: Learn skills directly applicable to protecting ICS environments in sectors like energy, water, and manufacturing.
    3. Flexible Options: Start with online training at your own pace, then consider applying for in-person courses to gain hands-on experience.
    4. Credibility: Training from CISA, a trusted authority in cybersecurity, enhances your professional knowledge and credibility.

    Getting Started

    To enroll, visit the CISA ICS Training Page and browse their course catalog. For in-person courses like the 301, you may need to apply and obtain approval, so plan ahead.

    Final Thoughts

    CISA’s ICS Cybersecurity Training Program is an incredible resource for professionals looking to enhance their skills and better protect critical infrastructure. Completing the Advanced ICS Cybersecurity (301) course in Idaho Falls was a transformative experience for me, providing both knowledge and practical tools to tackle OT security challenges. I highly recommend checking it out and investing time in this training—it’s worth it!

    Be on the lookout for a future post where I’ll take a deeper dive into the 301 course, breaking down the lessons learned and insights gained.

  • Rockwell Automation’s Cybersecurity Advisory: A Call to Action for All ICS Vendors

    Rockwell Automation’s Cybersecurity Advisory: A Call to Action for All ICS Vendors

    In a bold move that underscores the increasing importance of cybersecurity in the industrial sector, Rockwell Automation has issued a public advisory in response to heightened geopolitical tensions and adversarial cyber activities globally. This notice is not just a precaution; it’s a call to immediate action for all organizations utilizing Industrial Control Systems (ICS).

    The Advisory: A Critical Step Forward

    Rockwell’s advisory urges all customers to take immediate steps to assess whether they have devices connected to the public internet and, if so, to disconnect any that are not specifically designed for such exposure. This directive is a critical reminder of the vulnerabilities that can arise from internet-facing Operational Technology (OT) devices, which are often targeted by malicious actors seeking to exploit weaknesses in ICS environments

    Why This Matters

    The significance of Rockwell’s public stance cannot be overstated. As a leading player in the automation and control systems industry, Rockwell’s decision to issue this advisory sets a precedent that could influence other vendors to adopt similar measures. The interconnected nature of today’s industrial environments means that a breach in one system can have cascading effects, potentially impacting operations, safety, and the broader supply chain.

    A Broader Implication for ICS Vendors

    While Rockwell has taken the lead, this advisory serves as a wake-up call for all ICS vendors. The cybersecurity landscape is evolving rapidly, and the threats are becoming more sophisticated. Vendors must prioritize the security of their products and provide clear guidance to their customers on best practices for safeguarding their systems.

    Steps to Take Now

    For customers and vendors alike, the message is clear: act now. Here are a few steps to consider in light of Rockwell’s advisory:

    1. Conduct a Thorough Assessment: Identify all devices within your network that are connected to the public internet. Assess whether these devices need to be publicly accessible and determine their security posture.
    2. Disconnect Non Essential Devices: Immediately disconnect any devices that are not specifically designed for public internet connectivity. This step is crucial to reducing the attack surface and mitigating potential threats.
    3. Implement Robust Security Measures: If a device has to be internt-facing ensure strong security measures are in place, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security updates.
    4. Educate and Train Staff: Cybersecurity is a collective responsibility. Ensure that all employees are aware of the risks associated with internet-facing devices and are trained on best practices for maintaining security.

    Looking Ahead

    Rockwell Automation’s advisory is a timely reminder of the critical importance of cybersecurity in today’s industrial landscape. As threats continue to evolve, it is imperative that all ICS vendors and their customers take proactive steps to safeguard their systems. By working together and prioritizing security, we can build more resilient industrial environments capable of withstanding the challenges of the modern threat landscape.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, Rockwell’s public advisory is a commendable step that highlights the urgent need for action in the face of escalating cyber threats. It is a call to arms for the entire ICS community to reassess their security measures and ensure that they are prepared to defend against potential adversaries. Let’s take this opportunity to reinforce our defenses and protect the critical systems that underpin our industrial infrastructure.

  • Patch Management in OT: One Option, Not the Only Option

    Patch Management in OT: One Option, Not the Only Option

    Let’s take a look at a crucial aspect of cybersecurity in the operational technology (OT) space: patch management. While patching is an important tool in our security arsenal, it’s not always the only—or even the best—solution for every situation.

    Why Patch Management is Important

    Patch management involves applying updates to software and firmware to fix vulnerabilities, enhance performance, and add new features. In the OT environment, where systems control critical infrastructure and industrial processes, keeping systems up-to-date is vital for preventing cyberattacks and ensuring operational reliability.

    Challenges with Patching in OT

    • Operational Continuity: Many OT systems need to run continuously, and downtime for patching can disrupt essential operations.
    • Legacy Systems: Older OT systems may no longer receive updates from vendors, making patching difficult or impossible.
    • Testing and Validation: Patches must be tested thoroughly to ensure they do not introduce new problems, which can be a time-consuming process.
    • Vendor Coordination: Coordinating patches across multiple vendors and systems can be complex and time-consuming.
    • Cyber-Physical Risk: Applying patches can sometimes affect the physical processes controlled by OT systems, leading to safety and reliability concerns.

    Alternatives and Complementary Strategies to Patching

    Given these challenges, it’s essential to consider other strategies alongside patch management to secure OT environments. Here are some options:

    • Network Segmentation:
      • Description: Dividing the network into smaller, isolated segments to limit the spread of malware and restrict unauthorized access.
      • Benefits: Enhances security by containing potential breaches and limiting their impact on critical systems.
    • Whitelisting and Application Control:
      • Description: Allowing only approved applications and processes to run on OT systems.
      • Benefits: Prevents unauthorized or malicious software from executing, reducing the risk of exploitation.
    • Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS):
      • Description: Monitoring network traffic for suspicious activity and taking action to prevent potential threats
      • Benefits: Provides real-time detection and response to cyber threats, enhancing overall security.
    • Regular Security Audits and Assessments:
      • Description: Conducting regular reviews of security controls, configurations, and vulnerabilities.
      • Benefits: Identifies and addresses potential weaknesses before they can be exploited.
    • Physical Security Controls:
      • Description: Implementing physical security measures such as access controls, surveillance, and environmental protections.
      • Benefits: Prevents unauthorized physical access to critical OT systems and infrastructure.
    • User Training and Awareness:
      • Description: Educating employees about cybersecurity best practices and the specific risks associated with OT environments.
      • Benefits: Reduces the risk of human error and increases the overall security posture of the organization.
    • Incident Response Planning:
      • Description: Developing and maintaining a comprehensive incident response plan tailored to OT environments.
      • Benefits: Ensures a coordinated and effective response to cybersecurity incidents, minimizing their impact.

    Conclusion

    While patch management is an important component of OT security, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. By adopting a multi-faceted approach that includes network segmentation, whitelisting, IDPS, regular audits, physical security, user training, and incident response planning, organizations can build a robust security posture that protects critical infrastructure and industrial processes.

    What are your thoughts on alternative strategies to patch management in OT environments? Have you implemented any of these measures? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going and learn from each other!