HomeCyber SecurityThe Need for Network Segregation in Critical Infrastructure Systems

The Need for Network Segregation in Critical Infrastructure Systems

Date:

recent article in the NY Times claims:

The vast majority of targeted computer attacks now start with a malicious e-mail sent to a company employee. Now evidence suggests that the same technique could be used to attack watersheds, power grids, oil refineries, and nuclear plants.

This cannot be allowed to happen, here I explore the issue in a little more detail.

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The NY Times is identified the risk as:

…all it takes is one click for an attacker to get inside a system. In one case, Critical Intelligence could see an instant messaging exchange between two employees that discussed critical systems. And while it would be difficult for attackers to inflict catastrophic damage from one employee’s machine, a patient attacker would simply wait for that employee to connect his or her laptop to an electrical substation, or move around the network to an employee who connected to critical systems regularly.

This is only true if the networks are connected. Air gaps are a candidate solution, but this also prevents legitimate business processes. As explored in air gap security failures, this need for the exchange of data is one reason why air gaps all too often fail.

Data Diode

In Air-Gaps, Firewalls and Data Diodes in Industrial Control Systems an alternative approach is explored that looks at putting one-way network connections in place, based on Data Diode technology. This enables the business process while reducing the risk. The briefing then looks further at how Data Guard technology can further minimize the risk, using content filtering to ensure only data related to the allowed business can pass the one-way connection.

We cannot avoid the need to join systems, but we can manage the risks by understanding the business information exchange needs, and build solutions to enable those, but only those, data flows.

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How are you achieving network segregation in your environment? Please leave your comments below.

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11 COMMENTS

    • Are you serious? Chaos may be fun in certain situations, but when it comes to network security, it’s a recipe for disaster. Segregation is essential to protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access. It’s about minimizing risk, not inviting chaos.

  1. “Wow, this Data Diode thing sounds like a high-tech superhero gadget! I’m all for network segregation if it keeps our critical infrastructure safe from cyber villains 💪🔒”

    • Haha, don’t get too carried away with the superhero fantasies! While network segregation is important, relying solely on the Data Diode might not be enough to keep those cyber villains at bay. It’s just one piece of the puzzle. Stay vigilant!

    • Data Diodes are not just fancy gadgets. They provide one-way communication, preventing any cyber threats from infiltrating your network. So yes, they do solve network segregation problems. Don’t underestimate their power.

  2. “Wow, this data diode thing sounds like a fancy gadget from a sci-fi movie! 🚀 But is it really necessary for critical infrastructure systems? 🤔”

    • Nah, it’s just another overhyped tech gimmick. Critical infrastructure systems have been running fine without it for years. Waste of money if you ask me. Stick to the basics and invest in tried and true security measures.

  3. “Data diodes? Sounds like a fancy gadget from a sci-fi movie! But do they really work in protecting critical infrastructure systems?”

    • Data diodes may sound like a sci-fi gadget, but they are a real solution for protecting critical infrastructure systems. Their one-way communication design ensures that no malicious data can enter the system. Don’t let the fancy name fool you, they are effective in safeguarding our vital infrastructure.

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