Strengthening Infrastructure and Mitigating Risks in Critical Facilities
This year [2023] was marked by significant developments in infrastructure security, cyber threats, and the evolution of critical facility management. Amidst the progress and critical lessons learned, it has become evident that greater attention must be paid, and comprehensive strategies must be put in place moving forward.
Reviewing the Physical Infrastructure
While there have been incremental improvements, the overarching observation remains the lack of adequate emphasis on bolstering physical infrastructure. Year after year, small implementations have been made, yet there exists ample room for improvement, demanding owners’ focused attention in fortifying these critical components.
External Threat Landscape
One of the persistent challenges faced in 2023 was the looming threat of cyber-attacks on Industrial Control Systems (ICS). Whether stemming from design flaws or human susceptibility, phishing attacks continue to be the primary point of ingress. This demands an unwavering focus on enhancing control systems and upskilling personnel to thwart potential breaches.
Risks Emerging from Delivery Phase
The year was riddled with issues arising post-commissioning, primarily concerning the presence of intentionally engineered back doors in facilities. These vulnerabilities, left unaddressed, pose substantial risks, necessitating a concerted effort from all stakeholders to rectify. Time and again, the vulnerability risk stemming from such backdoors has been glaring, underlining the urgency to close these security gaps.
Looking Ahead:
Future Focus
The trajectory for 2024 demands a shift from reactive firefighting to proactive risk mitigation. The interconnected nature of supply chains necessitates a vigilant approach to understanding and vetting new technologies. Embracing concepts like SBOM and effective monitoring becomes imperative to mitigate blind spots and fortify against emerging threats. Staying ahead of evolving regulatory standards is crucial, ensuring preparedness in the face of changing landscapes.
Evolving Training
The focal point of training initiatives for 2024 should revolve around proactive measures to reduce risks and vulnerabilities. It should be expressed both in a cyber context and as an operational imperative. Strengthening design and infrastructure fortifies against cyber threats and augments overall operational efficiency—a crucial facet in today’s dynamic landscape.
Taking an Active Role
Owners should elevate both their Operational Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT) infrastructures, ensuring their teams are equipped to fortify the grid. Encouraging a proactive stance and a collective effort to secure critical facilities should be at the forefront of industry agendas.
Summary:
In retrospect, 2023 was a year that highlighted vulnerabilities, emphasized the need for robust training, and set the stage for a proactive, collaborative approach in fortifying critical infrastructures. As we advance into the new year, the lessons learned must serve as guiding beacons, propelling us toward a more secure, resilient future.
Listen in to Episode 14 of Navigating the Grid™ to hear more about 2023 and what to focus on in 2024. Click the links to get more information about Cybersecurity and Compliance. To speak to someone directly, please call us at 833.2.RADIAN. We can help!
