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A critical aspect of manufacturing, energy, and transportation is Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Operational Technologies (OT). The rapid pace of digital growth makes these systems susceptible to cyberattacks.
OT and ICS system security is important, making penetration testing an essential activity. This tactic makes it possible to mitigate weaknesses so they are no longer vulnerabilities. It is an effective measure of asset protection. Penetration testing can ease the challenges of protecting OT and ICS systems.
Understanding OT and ICS Security
From power grids to assembly lines, energy, manufacturing, and transportation industries primarily rely on operational technology and industrial control systems to ensure everything runs smoothly.
However, these systems have particular security concerns. Unlike IT systems, OT and ICS are seldom built with any form of cybersecurity in mind, which makes them very vulnerable to many forms of cyberattacks. Frequently, older equipment is difficult or even impossible to patch or upgrade, leaving the company more open to attackers.
This type of OT or ICS attack can introduce serious damage to the whole system. For instance, back in 2010, a malicious program called the Stuxnet worm targeted the external control system of Iran’s nuclear program, halting its operations. Another infamous case was the 2021 attack on the Colonial Pipeline, which caused fuel shortages in a large area of the United States. Stronger security is needed to avert the occurrence of incidents like these.
What Is Penetration Testing in OT and ICS?
A penetration test, also known as a pen test, is essential in safeguarding key forms of infrastructure by providing the information needed to reinforce the systems against attacks. However, unlike IT systems security, which is primarily centered on safeguarding sensitive data, OT/ICS systems necessitate the ability to allow for the continued performance and safety of operations. A pen test in such environments requires purpose-built tools, techniques, and methods due to the highly sensitive nature of the systems. As with all pen tests, it is important to conduct the engagement without affecting critical processes and operations.
Pre-test requirements
The first step for an effective security engagement is to link the IT, OT, and security teams. Based on how the system is set up, each group brings new knowledge to the testing, which when fused together greatly enhances the success of the test. An agreement must be reached in order to set a productive engagement scope.
Make sure to evaluate risks and vulnerabilities prior to the test. Determine the critical systems and evaluate the impact of any testing. Thorough preparation enables the formulation of plans that are safe and effective for the exercises while eliminating the chances of unforeseen disruptions.
The penetration testing process for ICS/OT is best done by specialists who possess a deeper understanding of industrial systems, protocols, and equipment. These professionals understand the unique aspects of OT environments, and are therefore able to develop exercises that best address the sensitivity of the systems.
Use non-intrusive techniques for highly sensitive industrial processes. These may include simulations that can be done during maintenance windows. These techniques allow for tests to be conducted that expose weaknesses without the risk of leaving the system vulnerable to extended downtime or damage.
Types of Penetration Testing in OT/ICS
For both OT and ICS, pen testing is usually classified into three categories:
- Internal Testing: This is where the attack is simulated from the perspective of an insider, for example, tampering by disgruntled staff or an employee who has been paid to or otherwise convinced to grant an attacker access to the system.
- External Testing: This mimics threats that commence from outside the organization. For example, attackers attempting to access exposed systems via the internet.
- Hybrid Approaches: This method combines both internal and external approaches in order to exploit vulnerabilities.
Every such kind of testing methodology has its purpose toward exposing specific risks.
The Cost of Penetration Testing for OT and ICS
The price of this testing relates to a variety of factors such as the number of targets as well as their complexity, the model used in pen testing, the scenarios being tested, and the qualifications of the team conducting the testing.
While pen testing may seem like an unnecessary extra cost, it is helpful in protecting your systems and ensuring that industry requirements and regulations are met while also minimizing the chances of your business processes being disrupted due to a cyber attack.
Benefits of Penetration Testing in OT/ICS Security
The advancement of technology introduces a more aggressive threat to OT and ICS on a daily basis. One of the best methods for deterring critical infrastructure breaches is through penetration testing methodologies, which serve the following purposes:
- Advanced threat identification: Prevent exposure and exploitation of a system’s weaknesses. According to Dark Reading, missing patches are responsible for 60% of OT security incidents. Regular testing can help to avoid these incidents in the future.
- Boosting Resilience and Readiness for Response: Cyberattacks have the potential to inflict physical harm as well as halting of operations. Pen testing can assist toward preparing your personnel to swiftly respond to actual threats.
- Abiding by the Existing Policies and Most Recent Industry Standards: In current market conditions, proactive security measures like NERC CIP and IEC 62443 have emerged, which dictate independent regular security assessments of critical infrastructure. The primary advantage of such tests is to prove that systems are guarded from threats.
- Cultivating Confidence in Critical Systems: If systems are put in place that show proactive security measures are being taken, then stakeholders, partners, and the general public will likely trust the organization more.
Challenges in Conducting Penetration Testing for OT/ICS
Some challenges with pen testing include:
Balancing Security Testing with Operational Continuity
OT and ICS are not like traditional IT systems. If any critical infrastructure systems are disrupted, the impact can be severe. A well-planned penetration testing strategy, aligned with ensuring operational continuity, strengthens the outcomes.
Limited Testing Windows and Downtime Concerns
Most OT systems run with little to no room for downtime. This means testing scheduling becomes a challenge. Explore ways to work with operational teams to establish schedules or time frames when minimal impact will be felt and use non-intrusive test methods to minimize risks.
Specialized Skills and Tools Required for Effective Testing
ICS environments utilize proprietary technologies and protocols that are drastically different from standard IT. Testing of these systems requires specialized knowledge and tools that work in compliance with OT Standard IEC 62443.
Potential Risks of Disrupting Sensitive Industrial Processes
The testing aspects of the OT/ICS environments are also similar to performing a surgical operation. There is no room for inefficiency, as a single poorly performed test can derail or greatly damage an entire set of processes. Non-invasive techniques combined with simulations in test-controlled environments should be the first step before being applied to live systems.
Proactive Security Measures for a Safer Future
In order to mitigate ever-growing cyber threats, guarding OT and ICS systems requires a proactive approach. Penetration testing is one of the many approaches to seek and remediate vulnerabilities before they are exploited. Combined with regular safety measures, advancements in the necessary testing methods, and a mindset of constant progression, critical infrastructure can be protected, ensuring a safer future for OT/ICS environments.
Check out Fortra’s pen testing toolkit which is designed to guide you through all the steps of managing an effective penetration testing program.
About the Author:
Micheal Chukwube is an Experienced Digital Marketer, Content Writer, and Tech Enthusiast. He writes informative, research-backed articles about tech, cybersecurity, and information security. He has been published on Techopedia, ReadWrite, HackerNoon, and more.
Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed in this guest author article are solely those of the contributor and do not necessarily reflect those of Tripwire.
