The document outlines a use case for securing industrial control systems (ICS) in critical infrastructure, specifically focusing on power distribution networks. It identifies potential security threats such as man-in-the-middle attacks, denial of service, and vulnerabilities in legacy protocols, along with proposing mitigation strategies like network segmentation and strong authentication. The importance of securing ICS is emphasized to maintain the reliability and integrity of essential services.

1. ICS Security Use Case: Mitigating
Threats in Critical Infrastructure
Prepared by [Your Name]
Date: October 2024

2. Introduction to Industrial Control
Systems (ICS)
• Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are critical
components of modern infrastructure, used in
power grids, water treatment, and
manufacturing.
• They ensure operational efficiency, reliability,
and safety in large-scale processes.

3. Objectives of the Presentation
• 1. Explain the scope and functionality of the
ICS environment.
• 2. Identify potential security threats to ICS.
• 3. Propose mitigation measures for ICS
security.

4. Description of the ICS Environment
• This use case focuses on a Power Distribution
Network.
• Key Components:
• - Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
• - Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs)
• - Remote Terminal Units (RTUs)
• - SCADA System

5. Scope and Goals of ICS
• The ICS monitors and controls power
distribution across substations.
• Goals:
• - Ensure reliable power flow.
• - Improve response times to faults.
• - Centralize data for decision-making.

6. Real-Time Monitoring and Control
• ICS gathers real-time data from sensors.
• PLCs and SCADA process information to
control power flow and ensure safe
operations.

7. Integration of IT and OT Systems
• Integration allows better data analytics and
performance optimization.
• Challenges:
• - Increased exposure to cybersecurity risks.
• - Legacy systems not designed for modern
threats.

8. Overview of Attack Vectors
• ICS environments face several security threats
due to increased connectivity:
• - Vulnerabilities in legacy protocols.
• - Lack of built-in security mechanisms.

9. Common Attacks on ICS (Part 1)
• - Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks:
Intercepting and altering ICS communication.
• - Denial of Service (DoS): Disrupting ICS
services by flooding networks.

10. Common Attacks on ICS (Part 2)
• - Malware/Ransomware (e.g., Stuxnet, Triton):
Targeting ICS components.
• - Unauthorized Access: Exploiting weak
authentication mechanisms.

11. Real-World Examples of ICS Attacks
• - Stuxnet (2010): Aimed at Iranian nuclear
facilities.
• - Triton (2017): Targeted safety systems in a
petrochemical plant.

12. Mitigation Techniques (Part 1)
• - Network Segmentation: Separate IT and OT
networks.
• - Firewalls and IDS: Monitor and control
network traffic.

13. Mitigation Techniques (Part 2)
• - Regular Security Updates: Patching ICS
components.
• - Strong Authentication: Implementing multi-
factor authentication.

14. Summary and Importance of
Securing ICS
• Securing ICS is crucial for maintaining reliable
infrastructure.
• Cybersecurity measures help protect against
threats and ensure system integrity.

15. References and Questions
• References:
• - Live session on ICS Security, October 6, 2024.
• Questions?