The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is becoming more and more popular, and as a result, the security risks that these devices face are getting worse.

 

In addition to having a significant impact on the consumer market (C-end), IIoT is also essential to business-critical (B-end) facets of public infrastructure and services, including transportation, power and energy, and smart cities. Therefore, IIoT security is no longer just a technical issue, but has been elevated to a strategic level globally, becoming an indispensable part of cross-border cooperation and large-scale project implementation.

 

What are the common IIoT security issues?

 

1. Device security shortcomings

 

Due to design or resource limitations, many IIoT devices lack sufficient security features. They are therefore great targets for cyberattacks due to vulnerabilities like weak passwords and the lack of encrypted communication channels.

 

Manufacturers must prioritize device security in order to address this, putting strong password procedures into place, using encrypted communication channels, and taking other steps to improve the devices' built-in security features.

 

2. Risk of data privacy leakage

 

IIoT devices frequently send and store an immense amount of private information, such as location and personally identifiable information. If this data is accessed or leaked without authorization, identity theft and other privacy violations may ensue.

 

3. Concerns about network security vulnerabilities

 

Due to intermittent firmware updates and poor network access permissions management, IoT devices frequently suffer network connection vulnerabilities. These weaknesses have the potential to seriously jeopardize the network's overall security if they are taken advantage of. To guarantee the reliable and safe operation of their network systems, enterprises should prioritize routine device firmware updates, fortify network access controls, and carry out frequent security vulnerability checks and repair.

 

4. Challenges of remote attacks

 

Although IIoT devices’ remote control and management features are incredibly convenient, they also present potential targets for remote attacks. Data security and device operational stability are seriously threatened by threats like DDoS assaults and remote execution of malicious commands.

 

Organizations must strengthen their network security in order to reduce this danger. This entails putting intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and other security measures into place as well as conducting thorough monitoring and auditing of remote access operations.

 

5. Complexity of ecosystem integration

 

The strong integration of IIoT devices with other devices and third-party services improves system efficacy overall, but it also creates new security threats. Attackers may use flaws in third-party devices or services as access points, which could compromise the system as a whole.

 

In order to guarantee the security of the entire ecosystem, enterprises must give top priority to thorough security evaluations and ongoing monitoring of third-party services during the ecosystem integration process.

 

What Are The Key Elements Of Building An IIoT Security Defense System?

 

Developing a strong IIoT security defense system calls for a sophisticated strategy. The following are the essential components:

 

1. Compliance with Cybersecurity Regulations and Standards

 

It is essential to follow established security guidelines. Important criteria consist of:

 

EU NIS2: The goal of this directive is to improve critical infrastructure cybersecurity in EU nations.

EU GDPR: The General Data Protection Regulation requires stringent adherence to data protection laws and enhances the protection of personal data.

U.S. NIST Cybersecurity Framework offers both federal and non-governmental organizations in the United States a thorough set of cybersecurity guidelines.

 

2. Cybersecurity System Construction

 

Implementing robust security systems is essential. Consider these systems:

  • ISO 27001: Provides a thorough foundation for information security management in businesses.
  • IEC 62443-4-1: The security of industrial control systems, in particular, is the main focus of this standard.
  • NIST SP 800-82: Detailed suggestions for industrial control system security management and protection are provided by NIST SP 800-82.

3. Comprehensive Protection of Terminal and Platform Network Security

 

Security measures must cover all aspects of the IIoT ecosystem:

  • Hardware Security: To stop tampering or replacement, make sure hardware devices are physically secure.
  • Software and Operating System Security: To reduce vulnerabilities, update and maintain software and operating systems on a regular basis.
  • Network Security: To manage network access and keep an eye on traffic, implement firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security measures.
  • Data Security: To safeguard the availability, confidentiality, and integrity of data, use methods such as access restriction and data encryption.
  • Privilege and Access Control: To restrict access to important resources and operations, enforce stringent access control measures.
  • Security Management: To efficiently monitor, address, and resolve security events, set up a thorough security management system and procedures.

 

4. Product-Related Certifications and Tests

 

Validate the security of IIoT products through certifications and testing:

  • Industrial network security products are certified by IEC 62443-4-2 to make sure they adhere to strict specifications.
  • Penetration testing: To find and fix possible weaknesses in the system, mimic hacker attacks.

 

The Bottom Line

 

In conclusion, developing a robust IIoT security defense system necessitates an all-encompassing strategy. This entails following rules and guidelines, putting strong security measures in place, thoroughly safeguarding terminals and network platforms, and confirming product security through testing and certifications. Organizations can establish a completely secure IIoT environment by addressing security across networks, data, equipment, and the entire ecosystem.

 

Security has been given top priority in Robustel's industrial IoT products. These devices' strong security systems are demonstrated by their integrated cloud-side security design and IEC 62443-4-1, ISO/IEC 27001, and IECEE-CB certifications. Additionally, they adhere to international standards including CE, CB, FCC, and IEC. The products have also been put through a thorough testing process, which included a code security audit by Deloitte and penetration tests by SGS and Nettitude.

 

Robustel's devices offer complete security protection for a variety of IoT applications thanks to this all-encompassing approach.