Introduction

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems are crucial components of modern critical infrastructure, including power grids, water treatment plants, and transportation networks. These systems rely on computer networks and software to monitor and control physical processes, making them vulnerable to cyber threats. As a result, SCADA security has become a top priority for organizations and governments worldwide. In this blog post, we will discuss the essential skills required for SCADA security experts to protect these critical systems from cyber attacks.

Understanding SCADA Systems and Security Threats

To effectively protect SCADA systems, security experts need to have a deep understanding of how these systems work. This includes knowledge of industrial control systems, network architectures, and communication protocols. According to a report by the Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team (ICS-CERT), there were 245 reported cyber incidents affecting industrial control systems in 2020 alone (1). This highlights the need for SCADA security experts to stay up-to-date with the latest threats and technologies.

SCADA security experts should also be familiar with common security threats, such as phishing, ransomware, and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks. These threats can have devastating consequences, including disruption of critical services, economic losses, and even loss of life. For example, the 2015 Ukraine power grid cyber attack, which was attributed to a Russian hacking group, left over 200,000 people without electricity (2).

Essential Skills for SCADA Security Experts

1. Networking and Communication Protocols

SCADA security experts should have a strong understanding of networking and communication protocols, including TCP/IP, Ethernet, and SCADA-specific protocols like MODBUS and DNP3. They should also be familiar with network architectures, including LAN, WAN, and VPNs. This knowledge is essential for securing SCADA systems, as many attacks exploit weaknesses in network communication protocols.

2. Industrial Control System (ICS) Security

SCADA security experts should have knowledge of ICS security best practices, including security assessments, vulnerability management, and incident response. They should also be familiar with ICS security standards and regulations, such as NERC CIP and IEC 62443. According to a report by the SANS Institute, 71% of respondents in the energy sector reported that they have implemented NERC CIP regulations (3).

3. Cybersecurity and Risk Management

SCADA security experts should have a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles, including risk management, threat analysis, and vulnerability assessment. They should also be familiar with common cybersecurity frameworks, such as NIST and ISO 27001. According to a report by the Ponemon Institute, 62% of organizations in the energy sector reported that they have implemented a cybersecurity risk management program (4).

4. Programming and Scripting Skills

SCADA security experts should have programming and scripting skills, including languages like Python, C++, and Java. They should also be familiar with scripting tools like PowerShell and Bash. These skills are essential for automating security tasks, such as monitoring and vulnerability scanning.

Best Practices for SCADA Security

In addition to having the right skills, SCADA security experts should also follow best practices for securing these critical systems. This includes:

  • Implementing network segregation and isolation
  • Conducting regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning
  • Implementing secure authentication and authorization protocols
  • Monitoring system activity and detecting anomalies
  • Having an incident response plan in place

Conclusion

SCADA security is a critical component of modern critical infrastructure, and experts in this field require a unique set of skills to effectively protect these systems from cyber threats. By understanding SCADA systems and security threats, networking and communication protocols, industrial control system security, cybersecurity and risk management, and programming and scripting skills, SCADA security experts can ensure the reliability and security of these critical systems. We would love to hear from you - what do you think are the most essential skills for SCADA security experts? Leave a comment below!

References:

(1) Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team (ICS-CERT). (2020). 2020 Year in Review.

(2) Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). (2019). Ukraine Power Grid Cyber Attack.

(3) SANS Institute. (2019). 2019 SANS State of ICS Security Survey.

(4) Ponemon Institute. (2020). 2020 Cybersecurity Risk Management Survey.