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

Phishing

The world of CI, which includes power grids, water supply systems, transportation networks, and communication infrastructure, is the backbone of modern society. It is also a prime target for cybercriminals seeking to exploit vulnerabilities, often relying on social engineering tactics to gain access. Phishing attacks have proven to be a persistent and effective method for cybercriminals to trick CI personnel into divulging sensitive information.

The anatomy of a phishing attack

Phishing is a type of cyberattack where malicious actors impersonate trustworthy entities, often via email, to deceive individuals into taking harmful actions. In the context of CI, attackers use phishing as a means to infiltrate systems, compromise sensitive data, and potentially disrupt essential services.

Impersonation and trust exploitation

Cybercriminals often craft convincing emails that appear to come from known and trusted sources, such as colleagues, supervisors, or government agencies...