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

Summary

In this chapter on security vulnerability assessment concepts, we cover essential aspects of identifying and mitigating potential threats within CI. The chapter begins by explaining the distinction between threats and vulnerabilities, laying the groundwork for further exploration. The chapter emphasizes distinguishing between risk, vulnerability, and threat to foster a clear understanding of each element’s significance in security assessments. Finally, we provide a comprehensive list and overview of the most common vulnerabilities and threats that exist within CI, with a specific focus on industrial legacy infrastructure. Armed with this knowledge, you will be better equipped to protect and manage critical systems effectively.

In the upcoming chapter, we explore the cybersecurity challenges faced by CI in today’s interconnected world. Covering common cyber threats such as DDoS attacks and APTs, we dissect their mechanics and tactics, providing real-world examples...