L15: Secure CPS, PLCs, and Embedded Systems

Secure CPS, PLCs, and Embedded Systems

redundancy

Deploy multiple redundant channels and backup controllers to sustain operations during component failure

adaptive control

Implement control algorithms that adjust dynamically to system changes or detected threats

anomaly detection

Identify deviations from normal operational patterns via statistical models and ML

real-time response

Configure automated countermeasures that isolate affected segments or switch to backup systems

how to secure a CPS

• anomaly detection

• real-time response

• calibrate thresholds to avoid false positives while ensuring timely threat detection

programmable logic controller (PLC)

A specialized industrial computer designed to automate and control machinery or processes in industrial environments

features of a PLC

real-time operation, resource constraints

embedded system

A specialized computer system designed to perform dedicated functions within a larger mechanical or electronic system

features of an embedded system

Dedicated functionality, Resource constraints, Real-time operations

what does a PLC do?

Continuously monitors input devices and executes pre-programmed instructions to control output devices

vulnerabilities of PLCs

• Legacy code

• Weak authentication

• Outdated firmware

mitigations of PLC vulnerabilities

• Regular firmware updates and patch management

• Restrict remote access through strict network segmentation and VPNs

• Use digital signatures to validate firmware integrity

vulnerabilities of embedded systems

• limited processing power and memory

• use of proprietary protocols

enhancements of embedded systems

• Secure boot processes to verify the integrity of the system at startup

• Hardened operating systems with minimal services and attack surfaces

• Encryption for data stored and transmitted by embedded devices

best practices to secure PLCs

• Periodic vulnerability assessments and pen testing

• Establish a secure supply chain for hardware components

• Role-based access control

• Logging and anomaly detection

vulnerabilities of RF

• Intercept wireless signals

• Jamming

• Spoofing

mitigations of RF vulnerabilities

• Robust encryption on wireless communications

• Frequency hopping or spread spectrum techniques to thwart interference

• Monitor RF spectrum for anomalies

hardware threats

• Physical tampering

• Side-channel attacks

• Reverse engineering

hardware protective measures

• Tamper-evident and tamper-resistant hardware design

• Physical enclosures, secure key storage

• Obfuscation and code signing to protect firmware integrity

challenges of securing hardware

• Balance cost, performance, and security in hardware design

• Integrate physical security with cyber controls in a unified strategy

layered defense

Combine resilient control systems, tailored IDS/IPS, secure PLC/embedded system measures, and RF protections

coordination and monitoring

Continuous monitoring through SIEM, Regular audits, risk assessments, and vulnerability scanning

best practices to secure embedded systems

• layered defense

• coordination and monitoring

• adhere to standards and frameworks