Energy & utility companies deal with oil & gas upstream (energy) and power generation, power and gas transportation and distribution (utilities). In the last few decades, most of these companies have developed and managed OT and IT as two different realms which keeps a separate technology stack, protocols, standards, governance models and organizational units.
Nonetheless, over the last few years, OT has been progressively adopting IT-like technologies. Exposing OT systems to potentially open networks which are currently found in the IT world brings new challenges that have to be properly addressed in a converged IT/OT environment.
Although the convergence of these two technologies brings tangible benefits such as cost reductions, enhanced performance and flexibility gains, however, this also provides a great deal of challenges, especially in the security governance of connected control and automation systems. The management of these companies must recognize upfront that establishing a successful, sustainable security program is a huge, complex and very long-term effort, but it can and must be done.
Maximus has devised a solution that will meet the changing information security & resiliency needs of the energy sector. With the convergence of IT & OT in the operating environment, this issue requires extensive knowledge in this environment.
Distributed control systems (DCS) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) have been widely deployed in managing the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity and gas supply. Any prolonged loss of monitoring and control through DCS/SCADA, in terms of hours, would paralyze the entire operations; it is a norm that systems require extensive testing before any changes. Though one can claim that the security control implementation and execution are the same, they are not the same – Maximus takes on different strategies for designing, operating and maintaining these systems to create a resilient system against availability losses and a secure system against security compromises.
We have managed to secure more than a dozen operational technologies consisting of both power & gas production and distribution. As well as provided expert advisory to energy regulators with their regulatory functions to effectively manage the industry and provide pro-active measures to protect this critical infrastructure.
energy industry
sector specific cyber threats
The energy industry faces a unique set of cybersecurity challenges due to its critical infrastructure and increasing reliance on interconnected digital systems. Addressing these emerging cyber threats requires a multi-faceted approach, including proactive threat intelligence, robust cybersecurity measures, employee training, incident response planning, and collaboration with industry partners and government agencies. By staying vigilant and adopting comprehensive security strategies, energy companies can better protect their critical infrastructure and maintain the reliability and resilience of energy operations. Here are some sector-specific emerging cyber threats in the energy industry:
Ransomware Targeting Operational Technology (OT):
Ransomware attacks targeting OT systems, such as SCADA and Distributed Control Systems (DCS), pose significant threats to energy operations. These attacks can disrupt critical processes, leading to operational downtime, equipment damage, and potential safety hazards. Attackers may demand hefty ransom payments in exchange for restoring control over OT systems, causing financial losses and reputational damage.
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs):
APT groups, often sponsored by nation-states or organized crime, target energy companies to steal sensitive data, disrupt operations, or conduct espionage. APT attacks are characterized by their sophisticated tactics, long-term persistence, and stealthy infiltration of networks.
These adversaries may exploit zero-day vulnerabilities, conduct reconnaissance, and use advanced malware to evade detection and maintain access to critical systems.
Supply Chain Attacks:
Energy companies rely on complex supply chains involving numerous vendors, contractors, and third-party service providers. Supply chain attacks targeting software and hardware components used in energy infrastructure can introduce vulnerabilities and compromise the integrity of systems. Attackers may exploit supply chain weaknesses to implant malicious code, conduct espionage, or disrupt energy operations.
IoT and IIoT Vulnerabilities:
The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) devices in the energy sector increases attack surfaces and introduces new cybersecurity risks. Vulnerabilities in IoT/IIoT devices, such as smart meters, sensors, and control systems, can be exploited to gain unauthorized access, disrupt operations, or launch DDoS attacks.
Securing IoT/IIoT devices and implementing robust authentication, encryption, and access controls are critical to mitigating these emerging threats.
Cyber-Physical Attacks:
Cyber-physical attacks aim to manipulate physical processes and cause real-world damage to energy infrastructure. These attacks target interconnected systems controlling power generation, transmission, and distribution, posing risks of equipment failure, blackouts, and environmental disasters.
Examples include manipulating power grid settings, causing overloads, or tampering with oil and gas pipeline operations.
Insider Threats and Human Error:
Insider threats, whether intentional or unintentional, remain a significant concern in the energy industry.
Malicious insiders may abuse their privileges to sabotage systems, steal sensitive data, or disrupt operations.
Human errors, such as misconfigurations, lack of security awareness, and inadequate training, can inadvertently expose energy systems to cyber risks and vulnerabilities.
Our Solutions
ICS/DCS/SCADA Cybersecurity Audit
Security-by-Design
Engineering
Cybersecurity Framework Engineering
Regulatory Compliance
Audit
Cybersecurity Governance Engineering
Cybersecurity Vulnerability Assessment
Cybersecurity Process Engineering
Security Design and Architecture Review
Cybersecurity Risk Management Engineering
Cybersecurity Readiness Assessment
Penetration Testing
If you want to learn more about how we managed to assist various energy companies, feel free to contact us.
© 2024 Maximus International LLC. All rights reserved.