OT Ransomware and Malware Protection
Overview
Ransomware and malware attacks have become a significant threat to OT environments, impacting production, safety, and availability of industrial processes. Over the years, targeted attacks like TRITON/TRISIS (2017), which aimed at Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) in oil and gas, and EKANS/SNAKE (2020), specifically targeting OT systems, highlight the evolving nature of these threats.
Such malware not only compromises data but disrupts critical operations, making OT-focused ransomware protection essential. By leveraging solutions aligned with IEC 62443 standards and critical infrastructure protection standards regionally (NCA OTCC, UAE CSC), organizations can implement multiple layers of protection to reduce risks.
Our Approach
CS4 provides a multi-layered OT Ransomware and Malware Protection strategy that incorporates Endpoint Protection, Detection, and Response tools along with strict policy enforcement to secure OT assets. Our solutions include:
- Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP): EPP solutions provide baseline anti-virus and anti-malware defenses for OT systems. Aligned with IEC 62443-3-3 FR3 for system integrity, EPP secures endpoints like HMIs, engineering workstations, and PLC programming devices, detecting known threats before they penetrate control processes.
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): EDR tools monitor for and respond to anomalous behaviors and unauthorized modifications in real-time, enabling proactive threat hunting. This aligns with IEC 62443-3-3 SR 3.2, enhancing visibility into endpoint activities, helping to detect and respond to advanced threats that evade basic detection measures.
- Next-Generation Anti-Virus (NGAV): NGAV goes beyond traditional AV by using machine learning and behavior analytics to detect and block sophisticated ransomware strains like EKANS/SNAKE, which specifically target industrial processes. Aligned with IEC 62443-3-3 FR3, NGAV provides enhanced protection on OT endpoints.
- Host-Based Intrusion Prevention System (HIPS): HIPS defends against unauthorized access and potential intrusions by monitoring and blocking suspicious activities on the host level. It supports IEC 62443-4-2 CR 3.1 and CR 3.2, focusing on unauthorized communications and process interference at critical OT nodes.
- Host-Based Firewalls: These firewalls restrict communication to essential processes and applications, preventing ransomware from propagating laterally within OT zones. Implementing host-based firewalls aligns with IEC 62443-4-2 CR 3.1 and CR 3.2, providing an additional layer of isolation at the endpoint level.
- Limiting Administrative Rights: Restricting administrative rights reduces the risk of unauthorized actions, especially those involving privileged accounts. Adhering to IEC 62443-3-3 SR 2.1 and NIST SP 800-53 AC-5, we enforce the principle of least privilege, reducing the risk of ransomware and malware installations.
- Hardened Group Policy Objects (GPOs): By applying hardened GPOs, we lock down endpoints with strict security policies, such as disabling script execution and enforcing password policies, reducing the attack surface. This aligns with IEC 62443-3-3 FR 2 and enhances endpoint resilience.
- Application Whitelisting: Application whitelisting only allows approved applications to execute on OT systems, blocking malicious software from running. As recommended by IEC 62443-3-3 SR 3.2, this approach is critical for preventing unauthorized code execution on OT endpoints, particularly in environments like HMI and PLC control systems.
- Device Control: Device control solutions restrict the use of removable media like USBs, a known vector for ransomware. This aligns with IEC 62443-3-3 SR 3.2, preventing malware from entering OT networks via unauthorized devices and removable media.
- File Integrity Monitoring (FIM): FIM monitors critical files for unauthorized changes, alerting operators to possible tampering or ransomware activities. Aligned with IEC 62443-4-2 CR 3.4, it helps detect early signs of ransomware encryption on key OT files, enabling rapid response.
Our Capabilities
Our solutions have been customized and implemented across various industries to meet unique operational needs.
- Ports and Terminals: Securing container management systems and automated cranes with device control and application whitelisting, preventing unauthorized code execution.
- Maritime: Protecting vessel navigation and engine control systems through NGAV, hardened GPOs, and file integrity monitoring for reliable operations.
- Utilities: Safeguarding grid infrastructure by limiting administrative rights and using host-based IPS to detect and prevent malware threats.
- Water Desalination: Securing pumping and filtration systems with endpoint detection and response (EDR) and device control to ensure uninterrupted water supply.
Each industry solution aligns with IEC 62443 requirements, offering resilient protection for critical OT operations. With our OT Ransomware and Malware Protection solutions, you’ll benefit from:
- Multi-layered defenses against sophisticated ransomware and malware attacks.
- Continuous monitoring of endpoint integrity, backed by real-time threat detection.
- Customized solutions that align with global standards like IEC 62443, ensuring compliance and security.