You've deployed embedded systems. How do you keep your cybersecurity measures up to date?

To keep our cybersecurity measures up to date for deployed embedded systems, we: 1. Regular Updates: Apply firmware and software patches promptly. 2. Vulnerability Monitoring: Continuously monitor for new vulnerabilities and threats. 3. Strong Authentication: Implement robust authentication methods. 4. Secure Communication: Ensure encrypted communication channels. 5. Access Control: Limit access to authorized personnel only.

My opinion is that every piece of equipment in a organization must have a Technical Control Standard (TCS) that includes the minimal secure regulatory setup. This TCS should be verified by a member to ensure the setup of items is in compliance with security regulations the organization has adopted. Imagine blocking the external threats only to have an end use a local admin because of poor controls.

To maintain cybersecurity resilience in your systems, I recommend proper configurations of firewalls and Intrusion detection systems. A zero-trust policy needs to be in place for remote access to the servers unless a dedicated virtual private network is used. Eliminate default passwords and set a password expiration to stay ahead of attacks as well. Implement SSH private key authentication for the server rather than password authentication. This will go a long way, and always perform regular patches and upgrades.

Use VPNs: Implement Virtual Private Networks for secure remote access to your systems. Encrypt Data: Protect data in transit with encryption to prevent unauthorized access. Segment Networks: Isolate critical devices and systems by segmenting your network, limiting lateral movement in case of a breach. Robust network security ensures that your embedded systems are protected against unauthorized access and potential attacks.

Network segmentation is critical in the environment to prevent lateral movement. Utilization of Vlans and firewalls (ACL) for department and restricting access to sensitive data helps the organization achieve data privacy goals and reduces the surface level of attack.

Regular Updates: Apply patches and updates promptly for both firmware and third-party libraries. Secure Configuration: Change default passwords, disable unnecessary services, and configure firewalls. Network Security: Use VPNs, encrypt data, and segment your network to isolate critical systems. Intrusion Detection: Implement and update IDS to monitor and respond to suspicious activities. Secure Coding: Follow secure coding practices and regularly test for vulnerabilities. Employee Training: Train staff on cybersecurity best practices to prevent human errors.