What is SCADA?

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems are used in operational technology (OT) environments to control and monitor various industrial processes. They consist of both software and hardware components that collect, analyze, and display real-time data from these devices.

How SCADA systems work?

Securing SCADA communications systems is a global priority for blocking cyber attacks targeted at manufacturing and critical infrastructure operations. Specialized cyber security is required to prevent disruptions to essential societal functions that rely on industrial automation systems including food and beverage production and vital services including:

• Water
• Sewage
• Electric power production/distribution
• Oil and gas production
• Public transportation (airlines, traffic lights, mass transit)

SCADA Generations

SCADA systems can be divided into four main generations, including:

• First Generation: First-generation SCADA systems were standalone devices isolated from other networks and often ran on mainframes or mini-computers. They could perform basic data acquisition and offered limited data processing capabilities.
• Second Generation: Second-generation SCADA systems were connected via a local area network (LAN) and included human-machine interfaces (HMIs) to improve usability. They also upgraded data processing and control capabilities from the previous generation.
• Third Generation: Third-generation SCADA systems removed the air gap, connecting to the corporate wide area network (WAN) and communicating over Internet protocols. These changes enabled remote access and centralized control over distributed remote sites.
• Fourth Generation: Fourth-generation SCADA includes integration with Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the use of cloud-based SCADA. This allows more extensive data collection and offers the scalability needed to perform advanced analytics on collected data.

Components of SCADA Systems

SCADA systems include everything from the sensors and actuators that interact with the physical world to centralized monitoring and control systems.

The Key components include:

• Field Instruments: Field instruments interface with the physical world and include sensors and actuators.
• Remote Terminal Units (RTUs): RTUs are the link between field instruments and SCADA systems, sending data and receiving instructions that they execute on the field instruments.
• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs): PLCs are specialized, highly reliable industrial computers that support automated processes in OT environments.
• Communications Infrastructure: SCADA systems are connected over the network using protocols such as Modbus and DNP3.
• Central Monitoring and Control Station: This solution processes and stores data and incorporates HMIs to allow operators to monitor and control processes.

SCADA System Architecture: The 5 Levels

The Purdue Reference Model breaks SCADA systems into five levels:

• Physical Process (Level 0): Level 0 consists of sensors and actuators and performs raw data collection and basic controls.
• Intelligent Devices (Level 1): Level 1 includes RTUs and PLCs. It acquires data from field devices and executes control algorithms to manage them in real-time.
• Control Systems (Level 2): Level 2 includes the centralized SCADA system and HMIs. Aggregates and analyzes data and enables operators to monitor and control SCADA systems.
• Manufacturing Operations Systems (Level 3): Level 3 incorporates higher-level management of production and operational data. It includes data historians and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES).
• Business Logistics Systems (Level 4): Level 4 focuses on the business-related aspects of manufacturing, typically using an enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution.

SCADA Security

SCADA security is important in manufacturing and critical infrastructure because these systems are responsible for monitoring and managing critical processes. Cyberattacks against manufacturing could cause operational disruption or physical harm to employees. Attacks on critical infrastructure could disrupt access to vital services, such as water and power.

SCADA security is a complex challenge because many of these devices are legacy systems that contain numerous vulnerabilities. These systems are increasingly connected to IT networks but lack the patches and security systems necessary to protect them against potential exploitation. As a result, cyber threat actors who gain access to these environments have the potential to easily disrupt critical operations.

Top Tips for Protecting Your ICS Environments From Cyber Threats

Some OT security best practices for protecting industrial control systems (ICS) environments and SCADA against cyberattacks include:

• Perform Risk Assessments: Regular risk assessments are critical to maintaining visibility into SCADA risk exposure. While direct patching may not be an option for some systems, the organization may be able to implement other controls to manage identified vulnerabilities.
• Segment Networks: OT networks should be segmented from IT networks. This makes it more difficult for attackers to access and potentially exploit critical systems.
• Implement Access Controls: Zero trust access controls and strong multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be used to restrict access to critical systems. These should be implemented by systems with an understanding of OT network protocols.
• Monitor Activity: SCADA systems should be regularly monitored for potential threats. The organization should have OT-specific incident response strategies to address potential incidents.
• Use Threat Intelligence: Threat intelligence can provide insight into current threat campaigns affecting OT systems. Monitoring relevant threat intelligence feeds can enable the organization to proactively protect against emerging threats.

Check Point Security Solutions for ICS Environments

ICS environments have strict availability requirements and face unique security threats and challenges. Check Point offers ICS security solutions that can understand and secure common OT protocols. Learn more about enhancing your SCADA security by signing up for a free demo.