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

Most common vulnerabilities and threats in CI

CI is a prime target for cyber threats due to its significance and potential impact on society and the economy. In this section, we are going to cover some of the most common threats and vulnerabilities faced by CI, along with examples to illustrate each.

Inadequately secured industrial control systems (ICS)

Cyberattacks on ICS are malicious activities that target the computerized systems used to manage and control various industrial processes, such as manufacturing, energy production, water treatment, and more. These attacks aim to disrupt, manipulate, or gain unauthorized access to CI, posing significant risks to public safety, national security, and economic stability.

ICS plays a crucial role in automating and optimizing complex industrial operations, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and safety in critical processes. ICS components include hardware, software, and networks that work together to monitor, control, and manage industrial...