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UK Cybersecurity Agency Advises Caution on Cloud-Based SCADA Systems

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:31 | Cybersecurity |   Editorial INTI


UK Cybersecurity Agency Advises Caution on Cloud-Based SCADA Systems

Jakarta, INTI - The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the UK's leading cybersecurity agency, has issued new guidance to help organizations evaluate the risks and benefits of migrating Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems to the cloud.

SCADA systems are critical components of many cyber-physical systems, especially in critical infrastructure facilities like power plants and water treatment facilities. These systems play a vital role in monitoring and controlling physical processes, making them a prime target for cyberattacks.

The NCSC guidance aims to educate organizations about the potential advantages and disadvantages of cloud-based SCADA deployments.

Security Concerns of Cloud-Based SCADA

While migrating SCADA systems to the cloud can offer benefits like increased flexibility, scalability, and remote access, the NCSC warns that it also introduces significant security challenges. Moving SCADA systems online fundamentally alters the traditional security landscape.

"Cloud migration doesn't just change the location of a SCADA system," the guidance highlights. "It fundamentally alters the traditional management, security boundaries, connectivity model, and access control mechanisms, as the system is now internet-connected."

This increased connectivity exposes SCADA systems to new attack vectors, potentially leading to operational disruptions in critical infrastructure sectors.

Security Considerations Before Migration

The NCSC emphasizes the importance of thorough security considerations before migrating SCADA systems to the cloud. Organizations need to ensure they have the necessary cybersecurity expertise, updated policies and procedures, and a clear understanding of how shared services in the cloud environment can impact security.

Technical Considerations for Cloud Migration

The guidance delves into technical considerations for cloud migration, including:

  • Legacy Hardware and Software: Organizations need to assess if their existing SCADA hardware and software are compatible with cloud environments.
  • Hybrid Connectivity: A hybrid approach, combining on-premises and cloud infrastructure, might be necessary for some organizations.
  • Cloud Architecture Design: The NCSC highlights the importance of designing a secure cloud architecture for SCADA systems, taking into account factors like data encryption and access controls.

Industry Experts Applaud the Guidance

Cybersecurity experts have welcomed the NCSC's guidance, particularly the emphasis on the potential risks associated with cloud-based SCADA systems.

"Many SCADA systems were designed years ago without security in mind and were never intended to be connected to the cloud," said Trevor Dearing, Director of Critical Infrastructure at Illumio, a cybersecurity company. "This makes them vulnerable to attacks and operational downtime."

Dearing echoed the NCSC's call for "organizational readiness" before migrating SCADA systems and recommended a "zero-trust" approach to security as a way to improve cyber resilience.

The NCSC's guidance provides valuable insights for organizations considering cloud migration for their SCADA systems. By carefully weighing the benefits and risks, and implementing robust security measures, organizations can make informed decisions about cloud adoption while safeguarding critical infrastructure.*Hans

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