Industrial Control System Security
Cross Industrial Control System Security
In today’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, Industrial Control Systems (ICS) form the backbone of critical infrastructure, manufacturing processes, and various other essential operations. These systems are the technological heartbeats that ensure efficiency, safety, and productivity across industries.
Industrial control systems (ICS) are some of the most important components within process facilities, but they can also be some of the more vulnerable. Legacy systems or un-upgraded control software can be vulnerable to attacks from malicious actors. This can lead to facility shutdown, unplanned downtime, recovery costs, damaged equipment, and displeased stakeholders.
If your industrial process control system is out-of-date or otherwise susceptible to attack, we can help. Cross Company Process Solutions has the experience, expertise, and industry-leading partnerships with recognized manufacturers necessary to ensure the safety of your facility.
The Importance of a Secure ICS
Industrial Control Systems (ICS) encompass the digital devices employed in a wide array of industrial processes, including critical infrastructure, manufacturing, and more. These systems consist of various components working in harmony to monitor and regulate operational technology (OT) systems. They manage variables like temperature, pressure, and flow rate (among other application-specific uses).
Key components within ICS include Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. Traditionally, many of these systems were able to operate as required outside of internet connectivity. But as industries move towards a more streamlined, integrated control schema, network connectivity has become necessary. Without control system protection, your production may be at risk.
PLCs
RTUs
HMIs
SCADA Systems
Application-specific equipment
Protection for Industrial Control Systems
ICS security is often more of a challenge than traditional cybersecurity due to the direct impact it has on process facilities. Not only does it prevent the loss of product if systems go down, it also protects the safety of operators and facility personnel if systems were to catastrophically fail or malfunction in unpredictable ways.
Some of the benefits of partnering with Cross for cybersecurity for industrial control systems include
Preservation of Essential Services
In the event that something goes wrong, control system security can ensure that essential functionality of the system is maintained. Meaning less production stoppage overall.
Ensuring Personnel Safety
Operators of these systems can suffer severe injuries if industrial machinery malfunctions due to inadequate security measures. We can help you protect your most valuable assets: your people.
Increased Efficiency
A secure, up-to-date control system can also increase the efficiency of your production overall. Not only does it protect your process, it can also optimize your production processes.
Cross Company Process Certifications
Common ICS Threats
There are several potential threats to the operation and efficiency of your ICS. Some of these include
External Threats – these may come in the form of targeted attacks of the networking or control infrastructure of your facility. A defense-in-depth approach is essential to shield critical systems from those seeking to disrupt operations or exfiltrate data.
Internal Threats – many ICS systems lack robust authentication measures for controlling access to individual production components. Consequently, once an individual gains access, they may have the ability to impact multiple machines and systems independently, significantly magnifying the threat posed by internal actors.
Human Error – control systems without sufficient safeguards can also be susceptible to human errors. This can include misconfigurations, mistakes in programming, or even missing/overlooking alerts.
Offering Solutions From Leading Brands
Why Cross Control System Security?
At Cross Company Process Solutions, we understand the critical importance of industrial cybersecurity for industrial manufacturing operations. As your trusted partner, we provide comprehensive cybersecurity solutions tailored to the unique needs of your industrial process facility. Our expertise in understanding the complex relationship between operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) allows us to deliver robust protection against cyber threats while ensuring uninterrupted production.
We understand that cybersecurity is more than just a checklist. It’s a continuous process of anticipating and adapting to change. Our primary goal is to safeguard your future, ensuring that your industrial processes remain secure, reliable, and efficient as you grow and expand.
By fortifying your cybersecurity posture, you empower your organization to innovate, optimize processes, and remain agile in the face of changing market demands. Your success is our success, and together, we can navigate the digital age securely and seize new opportunities while mitigating risks.
Related Solutions for Process Applications
At Cross, we offer much more than just industrial control system security solutions. We can also provide the solutions our process manufacturing partners need to succeed. Check out our other process solutions equipment and see for yourself.
