ISA/IEC 62443 is an international series of standards designed to secure networked industrial control systems. The standard provides a structured approach to cybersecurity, focusing on the unique requirements of industrial automation and control systems (IACS). It outlines procedures and technical specifications to help manage and mitigate risks associated with industrial cybersecurity.
IEC 62443 addresses various aspects of security, including system design, implementation, maintenance, and the security capabilities of both hardware and software components. The standard is applicable across different industrial sectors and is intended to safeguard systems from cyber threats while ensuring their safe and reliable operation.
IEC 62443 is organized into several parts, each designed to address distinct aspects of cybersecurity in industrial environments:
There are four security levels:
| Security Level | Description | Typical Threats Addressed | Specific Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| SL1 | Basic protection against unintentional violations with limited effort | Casual or coincidental cyber threats | - Basic security policies and procedures - Device-level authentication - Log collection for routine issues |
| SL2 | Protection against intentional violations using simple means | Low-level targeted attacks by attackers with limited skills | - All requirements from SL1 - Stronger authentication and authorization mechanisms - Enhanced user access controls and logging - Regular security patching and updates |
| SL3 | Protection against intentional violations using sophisticated means | Attacks carried out by skilled adversaries | - All requirements from SL2 - Network segmentation to limit access - Real-time intrusion detection systems - Advanced security measures like encrypted communications and multi-factor authentication |
| SL4 | Protection against intentional, sophisticated attacks by expert users | Highly sophisticated, targeted attacks by expert adversaries | - All requirements from SL3 - Continuous monitoring and anomaly detection - Forensic capabilities - Redudancy and resilience measures to maintain operations |
Cyber threats to industrial edge computing pose significant risks, including operational disruptions, data theft, compromised safety, financial losses, and erosion of trust. An example of such a threat is the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack, which exploited vulnerabilities in industrial edge devices, encrypted data and disrupted operations globally. This incident underscored the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information, ensure operational safety, and maintain business continuity, highlighting the severe consequences of neglecting cybersecurity.
The IEC 62443-4-1 and IEC 62443-4-2 standards specifically address cybersecurity for IAC components. Manufacturers seeking to demonstrate compliance can undergo testing and certification through the IEECE CB Scheme, a global program recognized in over 50 countries.
IEC 62443-4-1 focuses on integrating security throughout the product development lifecycle of industrial control systems, ensuring that cybersecurity measures are foundational. This standard helps prevent vulnerabilities like those exploited by WannaCry by mandating rigorous security practices from design to deployment and maintenance. Meanwhile, IEC 62443-4-2 specifies detailed technical security requirements for components of these systems such as embedded devices, network and host components, and software applications, enhancing their ability to withstand attacks. By adhering to these standards, organizations can bolster the security of their industrial edge computing systems, effectively mitigating the risks of operational disruptions and data breaches while safeguarding overall system integrity.
IEC 62443 certification directly improves cybersecurity for industrial edge devices in several concrete ways:
At this year's COMPUTEX 2024, iCube Solution and Bureau Veritas (BV) held a joint press conference at the iCube's booth, focusing on cybersecurity in the industrial edge landscape. The session highlighted iCube's Solution's systematic approach to obtaining IEC 62443-4-1 certification, emphasizing our proactive security enhancements. We discussed overcoming challenges such as aligning existing processes with stringent standards through comprehensive training, technological upgrades, and collaboration with cybersecurity experts from Bureau Veritas.
Looking forward, iCube's Solution plans to continue strengthening its cybersecurity measures, focusing on investment in innovative technologies and expanding its research and development in cybersecurity solutions. Additionally, iCube's Solution is also planning to advance to IEC 62443-4-2 certification, further bolstering our commitment to maintaining the highest levels of security.
