Book Image

Critical Infrastructure Security

By : Soledad Antelada Toledano
Book Image

Critical Infrastructure Security

By: Soledad Antelada Toledano

Overview of this book

Discover the core of cybersecurity through gripping real-world accounts of the most common assaults on critical infrastructure – the body of vital systems, networks, and assets so essential that their continued operation is required to ensure the security of a nation, its economy, and the public’s health and safety – with this guide to understanding cybersecurity principles. From an introduction to critical infrastructure and cybersecurity concepts to the most common types of attacks, this book takes you through the life cycle of a vulnerability and how to assess and manage it. You’ll study real-world cybersecurity breaches, each incident providing insights into the principles and practical lessons for cyber defenders striving to prevent future breaches. From DDoS to APTs, the book examines how each threat activates, operates, and succeeds. Additionally, you’ll analyze the risks posed by computational paradigms, such as the advancement of AI and quantum computing, to legacy infrastructure. By the end of this book, you’ll be able to identify key cybersecurity principles that can help mitigate evolving attacks to critical infrastructure.
Table of Contents (16 chapters)
1
Part 1: Introduction to Critical Infrastructure and Cybersecurity Concepts
5
Part 2: Dissecting Cyberattacks on CI
8
Part 3: Protecting Critical Infrastructure
12
Part 4: What’s Next

The state of CI in the face of cyberattacks

Cyberattacks on CI have continued to escalate in both frequency and complexity. There have been several notable incidents affecting power grids, transportation networks, and healthcare systems globally. Nation-state actors, criminal organizations, and hacktivists have continued to exploit vulnerabilities, causing significant economic and social repercussions. Let’s explore some of the latest cyberattacks and scenarios.

COVID-19-period cyberattack landscape

During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, cybercriminals seized the opportunity to target CI organizations that were at the forefront of healthcare, medical research, and vaccine development. The pandemic presented a unique and chaotic environment, with hospitals overwhelmed, research institutions racing to find solutions, and the global population seeking information and support. In this atmosphere of urgency and uncertainty, cybercriminals saw an opportunity to exploit vulnerabilities...