Referencing IEC 62443 Framework to build an effective OT/IoT Cybersecurity Program

Post onset of pandemic, there has been a significant increase in incidents of cyberattacks targeting country’s critical Infrastructure(s) jeopardizing the national security. As per the threat reports of 2021, there was a 134% increase in Ransomware attacks while more than 4 million malwares were detected every day making India the second most cyber attacked nation in the world after US.

Year 2021, saw a serious commitment from Government to strengthen the cybersecurity policies & regulatory framework for the country. One such initiative was the release of comprehensive cybersecurity guidelines for power sector, which aims to develop a resilient, secure and trustworthy grid which to a large extent is immune to cyber-attacks.

To embark into cyber journey in 2022, its imperative for organizations to understand and adopt Industry best practices and global frameworks tailored to suit their risk profile.??

One such framework is IEC 62443, which holistically addresses all aspects of OT security be it technical, procedural or people while covering all potential stakeholders - end users, product suppliers and service providers. Recently IEC officially designated it as “horizontal standard” applicable to a wide range of industries and critical infrastructures including but not restricted to power utilities, O&G, water management systems, healthcare, and transport systems.

Gradually the standard is gaining wider acceptance and is being adopted by organizations to secure their products, systems and processes from emerging cyber threats.

?? End users: Referencing standards as a guidance to develop their cybersecurity program while taking appropriate steps to secure sites, systems and supply chains.

?? Automation system suppliers: Certify the robustness of their products & processes for wider range of applications.

?? Security professionals: Certifying their competence on core concepts – CS fundamentals, risk assessment, design, and maintenance.

Glad to share my 1st set of credentials in this journey!!

#ISA/IEC 62443 cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist