ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Questions and Answers
What is defined as the hardware and software components of an IACS?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
COTS software and hardware
Electronic security
Control system
Cybersecuritv
Answer:
CExplanation:
According to the ISA/IEC 62443-1-1 standard, an industrial automation and control system (IACS) is defined as a collection of personnel, hardware, and software that can affect or influence the safe, secure, and reliable operation of an industrial process. The hardware and software components of an IACS include the control system, which is the combination of control devices, networks, and applications that perform the control functions for the industrial process. The control system may consist of various types of devices, such as distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLC), supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, human-machine interfaces (HMI), remote terminal units (RTU), intelligent electronic devices (IED), sensors, actuators, and other field devices. The control system may also use commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software and hardware, such as operating systems, databases, firewalls, routers, switches, and servers, to support the control functions and communication.
References:
- ISA/IEC 62443-1-1:2009, Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 1-1: Terminology, concepts and models, Clause 3.2.11
- ISA/IEC 62443-2-1:2010, Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 2-1: Establishing an industrial automation and control systems security program, Clause 3.2.12
In a defense-in-depth strategy, what is the purpose of role-based access control?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Ensures that users can access systems from remote locations
Ensures that users can access only certain devices on the network
Ensures that users can access only the functions they need for their job
Ensures that users correctly manage their username and password
Answer:
CExplanation:
Role-based access control (RBAC) is a method of restricting access to resources based on the roles of individual users within an organization. RBAC assigns permissions and responsibilities to roles, rather than to individual users, and then assigns users to those roles. This way, users can only perform the actions that are relevant and necessary for their role, and not access or modify any other resources that are beyond their scope of authority. RBAC is one of the security countermeasures that can be implemented in a defense-in-depth strategy, which is a layered approach to protect industrial automation and control systems (IACS) from cyber threats. RBAC can help prevent unauthorized access, misuse, or sabotage of IACS resources, as well as reduce the risk of human error or insider attacks.
References:
- ISA/IEC 62443-3-3:2013, Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 3-3: System security requirements and security levels, Clause 5.3.2.11
- ISA/IEC 62443-2-1:2010, Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 2-1: Establishing an industrial automation and control systems security program, Clause 6.2.2.32
- ISA/IEC 62443-4-1:2018, Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 4-1: Product security development life-cycle requirements, Clause 5.2.3.23
- ISA/IEC 62443-4-2:2019, Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 4-2: Technical security requirements for IACS components, Clause 4.2.3.24
Which is a PRIMARY reason why network security is important in IACS environments?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
PLCs are inherently unreliable.
PLCs are programmed using ladder logic.
PLCs use serial or Ethernet communications methods.
PLCs under cyber attack can have costly and dangerous impacts.
Answer:
DExplanation:
Network security is important in IACS environments because PLCs, or programmable logic controllers, are devices that control physical processes and equipment in industrial settings. PLCs under cyber attack can have costly and dangerous impacts, such as disrupting production, damaging equipment, compromising safety, and harming the environment. Therefore, network security is essential to protect PLCs and other IACS components from unauthorized access, modification, or disruption. The other choices are not primary reasons why network security is important in IACS environments. PLCs are not inherently unreliable, but they can be affected by environmental factors, such as temperature, humidity, and electromagnetic interference. PLCs are programmed using ladder logic, which is a graphical programming language that resembles electrical schematics. PLCs use serial or Ethernet communications methods, depending on the type and age of the device, to communicate with other IACS components, such as human-machine interfaces (HMIs), supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, and distributed control systems (DCSs). References:
- ISA/IEC 62443 Standards to Secure Your Industrial Control System training course1
- ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Study Guide2
- Using the ISA/IEC 62443 Standard to Secure Your Control Systems3
Which steps are included in the ISA/IEC 62443 assess phase?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Cybersecurity requirements specification and detailed cyber risk assessment
Cybersecurity requirements specification and allocation of IACS assets to zones and conduits
Detailed cyber risk assessment and cybersecurity maintenance, monitoring, and management of change
Allocation of IACS assets to zones and conduits, and detailed cyber risk assessment
Answer:
BExplanation:
The ISA/IEC 62443 standards are focused on industrial automation and control systems security. The assess phase within the ISA/IEC 62443 framework is designed to identify and analyze potential vulnerabilities in the industrial control system (ICS) environment. One of the key steps in this phase is the specification of cybersecurity requirements. Additionally, it involves the allocation of industrial automation and control system (IACS) assets to defined zones and conduits to manage and segregate the network and improve security. These measures help to ensure that security requirements are met and that the assets are protected according to their security needs. Therefore, the correct answer is B, which mentions both the cybersecurity requirements specification and the allocation of IACS assets to zones and conduits as part of the assess phase.
Which steps are part of implementing countermeasures?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Establish the risk tolerance and select common countermeasures.
Establish the risk tolerance and update the business continuity plan.
Select common countermeasures and update the business continuity plan.
Select common countermeasures and collaborate with stakeholders.
Answer:
AExplanation:
According to the ISA/IEC 62443-3-2 standard, implementing countermeasures is one of the steps in the security risk assessment for system design. The standard defines a comprehensive set of engineering measures to guide organizations through the process of assessing the risk of a particular industrial automation and control system (IACS) and identifying and applying security countermeasures to reduce that risk to tolerable levels. The standard recommends the following steps for implementing countermeasures:
- Establish the risk tolerance: This step involves determining the acceptable level of risk for the organization and the system under consideration, based on the business objectives, legal and regulatory requirements, and stakeholder expectations. The risk tolerance can be expressed as a target security level (SL-T) for each zone or conduit in the system.
- Select common countermeasures: This step involves selecting the appropriate security countermeasures for each zone or conduit, based on the SL-T and the existing security level (SL-A) of the system. The standard provides a list of common countermeasures for each security level, covering the domains of physical security, network security, system security, and application security. The selected countermeasures should be documented and justified in the security risk assessment report. References: ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Series Designated as IEC Horizontal Standards, Cybersecurity Risk Assessment According to ISA/IEC 62443-3-2
Which is a common pitfall when initiating a CSMS program?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Organizational lack of communication
Failure to relate to the mission of the organization
Insufficient documentation due to lack of good follow-up
Immediate jump into detailed risk assessment
Answer:
DExplanation:
"A common pitfall is to attempt to initiate a CSMS program without at least a high-level rationale that relates cyber security to the specific organization and its mission."
A CSMS program is a Cybersecurity Management System program that follows the IEC 62443 standards for securing industrial control systems (ICS)1. A common pitfall when initiating a CSMS program is D. Immediate jump into detailed risk assessment. This is because a detailed risk assessment requires a clear definition of the system under consideration (SuC), the allocation of IACS assets to zones and conduits, and the identification of threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences for each zone and conduit2. These steps are part of the assess phase of the CSMS program, which is the first phase of the security program development process2. However, before starting the assess phase, it is important to have the management team’s support to ensure the CSMS program will have sufficient financial and organizational resources to implement necessary actions2. Therefore, jumping into detailed risk assessment without having the management buy-in is a common mistake that can jeopardize the success of the CSMS program.
Whose responsibility is it to determine the level of risk an organization is willing to tolerate?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Management
Legal Department
Operations Department
Safety Department
Answer:
AExplanation:
According to the ISA/IEC 62443 standards, the level of risk an organization is willing to tolerate is determined by the management, as they are responsible for defining the business and risk objectives, as well as the security policies and procedures for the organization. The management also has the authority to allocate the necessary resources and assign the roles and responsibilities for implementing and maintaining the security program. The legal, operations, and safety departments may provide input and feedback to the management, but they do not have the final say in determining the risk tolerance level. References: ISA/IEC 62443-2-1:2010 - Establishing an industrial automation and control systems security program, section 4.2.1.
Which of the following is the BEST example of detection-in-depth best practices?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Firewalls and unexpected protocols being used
IDS sensors deployed within multiple zones in the production environment
Role-based access control and unusual data transfer patterns
Role-based access control and VPNs
Answer:
BExplanation:
The best practice for detection-in-depth according to ISA/IEC 62443 involves layering different types of security controls that operate effectively under multiple scenarios and across various zones within an environment. IDS (Intrusion Detection Systems) sensors deployed across multiple zones within a production environment exemplify this strategy. By positioning sensors in various strategic locations, organizations can monitor for anomalous activities and potential threats throughout their network, thus enhancing their ability to detect and respond to incidents before they escalate. This deployment aligns with the ISA/IEC 62443 focus on comprehensive coverage and redundancy in cybersecurity mechanisms, contrasting with relying solely on perimeter defenses or single-point security solutions.
What.are the two elements of the risk analysis category of an IACS?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Risk evaluation and risk identification
Business rationale and risk reduction and avoidance
Business rationale and risk identification and classification
Business recovery and risk elimination or mitigation
Answer:
CExplanation:
The risk analysis category of an IACS consists of two elements: business rationale and risk identification and classification1. Business rationale is the process of defining the scope, objectives, and criteria for the risk analysis, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders involved. Risk identification and classification is the process of identifying the assets, threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of a cyberattack on the IACS, and assigning a risk level to each scenario based on the likelihood and impact of the attack1. These elements are essential for establishing a baseline of the current risk posture of the IACS and determining the appropriate risk treatment measures to reduce the risk to an acceptable level. References: 1: ISA/IEC 62443-3-2:2020, Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 3-2: Security risk assessment for system design, International Society of Automation, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA, 2020.
What is a commonly used protocol for managing secure data transmission over a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
HTTPS
IPSec
MPLS
SSH
Answer:
BExplanation:
IPSec is a commonly used protocol for managing secure data transmission over a VPN. IPSec stands for Internet Protocol Security and it is a set of standards that define how to encrypt and authenticate data packets that travel between two or more devices over an IP network. IPSec can operate in two modes: transport mode and tunnel mode. In transport mode, IPSec only encrypts the payload of the IP packet, leaving the header intact. In tunnel mode, IPSec encrypts the entire IP packet and encapsulates it in a new IP header. Tunnel mode is more secure and more suitable for VPNs, as it can protect the original source and destination addresses of the IP packet from eavesdropping or spoofing. IPSec uses two main protocols to provide security services: Authentication Header (AH) and Encapsulating Security Payload (ESP). AH provides data integrity and source authentication, but not confidentiality. ESP provides data integrity, source authentication, and confidentiality. IPSec also uses two protocols to establish and manage security associations (SAs), which are the parameters and keys used for encryption and authentication: Internet Key Exchange (IKE) and Internet Security Association and Key Management Protocol (ISAKMP). IKE is a protocol that negotiates and exchanges cryptographic keys between two devices. ISAKMP is a protocol that defines the format and structure of the messages used for key exchange and SA management.
References:
- ISA/IEC 62443-3-3:2018, Section 4.2.3.7.1, VPN1
- ISA/IEC 62443-4-2:2019, Section 4.2.3.7.1, VPN
- ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Study Guide, Section 5.3.2, VPN
- ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Exam Specification, Section 5.3.2, VPN
Which of the following is an activity that should trigger a review of the CSMS?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Budgeting
New technical controls
Organizational restructuring
Security incident exposing previously unknown risk.
Answer:
B, C, DExplanation:
According to the ISA/IEC 62443-2-1 standard, a review of the CSMS should be triggered by any changes that affect the cybersecurity risk of the industrial automation and control system (IACS), such as new technical controls, organizational restructuring, or security incidents1. Budgeting is not a trigger for CSMS review, unless it impacts the cybersecurity risk level or the CSMS itself2. References: 1: ISA/IEC 62443-2-1:2010, Section 4.3.3.3 2: A Practical Approach to Adopting the IEC 62443 Standards, ISAGCA Blog3
What is a feature of an asymmetric key?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Uses a continuous stream
Uses different keys
Shares the same key OD.
Has lower network overhead
Answer:
BExplanation:
An asymmetric key is a feature of asymmetric cryptography, also known as public-key cryptography, which is a method of encrypting and decrypting data using two different keys: a public key and a private key. The public key can be shared with anyone, while the private key must be kept secret by the owner. The public key and the private key aremathematically related, but it is computationally infeasible to derive one from the other. Asymmetric cryptography can be used for various purposes, such as digital signatures, key exchange, and encryption. For example, if Alice wants to send a message to Bob, she can use Bob’s public key to encrypt the message, and only Bob can decrypt it using his private key. Alternatively, if Bob wants to prove that he is the author of a message, he can use his private key to sign the message, and anyone can verify it using his public key. Asymmetric cryptography has some advantages over symmetric cryptography, which uses the same key for both encryption and decryption. For instance, asymmetric cryptography does not require a secure channel to distribute the keys, and it can provide non-repudiation and authentication. However, asymmetric cryptography also has some drawbacks, such as higher computational complexity, larger key sizes, and higher network overhead.
References:
- ISA/IEC 62443-3-3:2018, Section 4.2.3.6.1, Cryptography1
- ISA/IEC 62443-4-2:2019, Section 4.2.3.6.1, Cryptography
- ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Study Guide, Section 5.3.1, Cryptography
- ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Exam Specification, Section 5.3.1, Cryptography
Which of the following is the BEST reason for periodic audits?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
To confirm audit procedures
To meet regulations
To validate that security policies and procedures are performing
To adhere to a published or approved schedule
Answer:
CExplanation:
Periodic audits are an essential part of the ISA/IEC 62443 cybersecurity standards, as they help to verify the effectiveness and compliance of the security program. According to the ISA/IEC 62443-2-1 standard, periodic audits should be conducted to evaluate the following aspects1:
- The security policies and procedures are consistent with the security requirements and objectives of the organization
- The security policies and procedures are implemented and enforced in accordance with the security program
- The security policies and procedures are reviewed and updated regularly to reflect changes in the threat landscape, the IACS environment, and the business needs
- The security performance indicators and metrics are measured and reported to the relevant stakeholders
- The security incidents and vulnerabilities are identified, analyzed, and resolved in a timely manner
- The security awareness and training programs are effective and aligned with the security roles and responsibilities of the personnel
- The security audits and assessments are conducted by qualified and independent auditors
- The security audit and assessment results are documented and communicated to the appropriate parties
- The security audit and assessment findings and recommendations are addressed and implemented in a prioritized and systematic way Periodic audits are not only a means to meet regulations or adhere to a schedule, but also a way to validate that the security policies and procedures are performing as intended and achieving the desired security outcomes. Periodic audits also help to identify gaps and weaknesses in the security program and provide opportunities for improvement and enhancement. References: Periodic audits are an essential part of the ISA/IEC 62443 cybersecurity standards, as they help to verify the effectiveness and compliance of the security program. According to the ISA/IEC 62443-2-1 standard, periodic audits should be conducted to evaluate the following aspects1:
- The security policies and procedures are consistent with the security requirements and objectives of the organization
- The security policies and procedures are implemented and enforced in accordance with the security program
- The security policies and procedures are reviewed and updated regularly to reflect changes in the threat landscape, the IACS environment, and the business needs
- The security performance indicators and metrics are measured and reported to the relevant stakeholders
- The security incidents and vulnerabilities are identified, analyzed, and resolved in a timely manner
- The security awareness and training programs are effective and aligned with the security roles and responsibilities of the personnel
- The security audits and assessments are conducted by qualified and independent auditors
- The security audit and assessment results are documented and communicated to the appropriate parties
- The security audit and assessment findings and recommendations are addressed and implemented in a prioritized and systematic way Periodic audits are not only a means to meet regulations or adhere to a schedule, but also a way to validate that the security policies and procedures are performing as intended and achieving the desired security outcomes. Periodic audits also help to identify gaps and weaknesses in the security program and provide opportunities for improvement and enhancement. References:
Why is patch management more difficult for IACS than for business systems?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Overtime pay is required for technicians.
Many more approvals are required.
Patching a live automation system can create safety risks.
Business systems automatically update.
Answer:
CExplanation:
Patch management is the process of applying software updates to fix security vulnerabilities, improve functionality, or enhance performance. Patch management is an essential part of cybersecurity, as unpatched systems can be exploited by malicious actors. However, patch management for industrial automation and control systems (IACS) is more challenging than for business systems, because patching a live automation system can create safety risks. According to the ISA/IEC 62443 standards, patching an IACS may have the following potential impacts1:
- Patching may introduce new vulnerabilities or errors that compromise the availability, integrity, or confidentiality of the IACS.
- Patching may affect the functionality or performance of the IACS, causing unexpected or undesired behavior, such as process shutdowns, slowdowns, or failures.
- Patching may require downtime or reduced operation of the IACS, which may affect production, quality, or profitability.
- Patching may require additional resources, such as personnel, equipment, or testing facilities, which may not be readily available or affordable.
Therefore, patch management for IACS requires careful planning, testing, and validation before applying patches to the operational environment. The ISA/IEC 62443 standards provide guidance and best practices for patch management in the IACS environment, such as1:
- Establishing a patch management program that defines roles, responsibilities, policies, and procedures for patching IACS components and systems.
- Identifying and prioritizing the IACS assets that need patching, based on their criticality, vulnerability, and risk level.
- Evaluating and verifying the patches for compatibility, functionality, and security before applying them to the IACS.
- Implementing and documenting the patching process, including backup, recovery, and rollback procedures, in case of patch failure or adverse effects.
- Monitoring and auditing the patching activities and outcomes, and reporting any issues or incidents.
References: 1: ISA TR62443-2-3 - Security for industrial automation and control systems, Part 2-3: Patch management in the IACS environment
Which statement is TRUE regarding Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Modern IDS recognize IACS devices by default.
They are very inexpensive to design and deploy.
They are effective against known vulnerabilities.
They require a small amount of care and feeding
Answer:
CExplanation:
Intrusion detection systems (IDS) are tools that monitor network traffic and detect suspicious or malicious activity based on predefined rules or signatures. They are effective against known vulnerabilities, as they can alert the system administrators or security personnel when they encounter a match with a known attack pattern or behavior. However, IDS have some limitations and challenges, especially when applied to industrial automation and control systems (IACS). Some of these are:
- Modern IDS do not recognize IACS devices by default, as they are designed for general-purpose IT networks and protocols. Therefore, they may generate false positives or negatives when dealing with IACS-specific devices, protocols, or traffic patterns. To overcome this, IDS need to be customized or adapted to the IACS environment and context, which may require additional expertise and resources.
- They are not very inexpensive to design and deploy, as they require careful planning, configuration, testing, and maintenance. They also need to be integrated with other security tools and processes, such as firewalls, antivirus, patch management, incident response, etc. Moreover, they may introduce additional costs and risks, such as network performance degradation, data privacy issues, or legal liabilities.
- They are not effective against unknown or zero-day vulnerabilities, as they rely on predefined rules or signatures that may not cover all possible attack scenarios or techniques. Therefore, they may fail to detect novel or sophisticated attacks that exploit new or undiscovered vulnerabilities. To mitigate this, IDS need to be complemented with other security measures, such as anomaly detection, threat intelligence, or machine learning.
- They require a significant amount of care and feeding, as they need to be constantly updated, tuned, and monitored. They also generate a large amount of data and alerts, which may overwhelm the system administrators or security personnel. Therefore, they need to be supported by adequate tools and processes, such as data analysis, alert filtering, prioritization, correlation, or visualization.
References: ISA/IEC 62443-2-1:2010 - Establishing an industrial automation and control system security program, ISA/IEC 62443-3-3:2013 - System security requirements and security levels, ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Training Course, [Enhancing Modbus/TCP-Based Industrial Automation and Control Systems Security Using Intrusion Detection Systems]
Which of the following is an industry sector-specific standard?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
ISA-62443 (EC 62443)
NIST SP800-82
API 1164
D. ISO 27001
Answer:
CExplanation:
API 1164 is an industry sector-specific standard that provides guidance on the cybersecurity of pipeline supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. API stands for American Petroleum Institute, which is the largest U.S. trade association for the oil and natural gas industry. API 1164 was first published in 2004 and revised in 2009 and 2021. The latest version of the standard aligns with the ISA/IEC 62443 series of standards and incorporates the concepts of security levels, zones, and conduits. API 1164 covers the security lifecycle of pipeline SCADA systems, from risk assessment and policy development to implementation and maintenance. The standard also defines roles and responsibilities, security requirements, security controls, and security assessment methods for pipeline SCADA systems.
References:
- API 1164: Pipeline SCADA Security, Fourth Edition, September 2021
- ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Study Guide, Section 2.2.2, Industry Sector-Specific Standards
- ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Exam Specification, Section 2.2.2, Industry Sector-Specific Standards
Which is a commonly used protocol for managing secure data transmission on the Internet?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS)
Microsoft Point-to-Point Encryption
Secure Telnet
Secure Sockets Layer
Answer:
A, DExplanation:
Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS) and Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) are both commonly used protocols for managing secure data transmission on the Internet. DTLS is a variant of SSL that is designed to work over datagram protocols such as UDP, which are used for real-time applications such as voice and video. SSL is a protocol that provides encryption, authentication, and integrity for data transmitted over TCP, which is used for reliable and ordered delivery of data. Both DTLS and SSL use certificates and asymmetric cryptography to establish a secure session between the communicating parties, and then use symmetric cryptography to encrypt the data exchanged. DTLS and SSL are widely used in web browsers, email clients, VPNs, and other applications that require secure communication over the Internet. References:
- ISA/IEC 62443 Standards to Secure Your Industrial Control System, Module 3: Introduction to Cryptography, pages 3-5 to 3-7
- Using the ISA/IEC 62443 Standards to Secure Your Control System, Chapter 6: Securing Communications, pages 125-126
Authorization (user accounts) must be granted based on which of the following?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Individual preferences
Common needs for large groups
Specific roles
System complexity
Answer:
CExplanation:
Authorization is the process of granting or denying access to a network resource or function. Authorization (user accounts) must be granted based on specific roles, which are defined as sets of permissions and responsibilities assigned to a user or a group of users. Roles should be based on the principle of least privilege, which means that users should only have the minimum level of access required to perform their tasks. Roles should also be based on the principle of separation of duties, which means that users should not have conflicting or overlapping responsibilities that could compromise the security or integrity of the system. Authorization based on individual preferences or common needs for large groups is not recommended, as it could lead to excessive or unnecessary access rights, or to inconsistent or conflicting policies. Authorization based on system complexity is also not a good criterion, as it could result in overcomplicated or unclear roles that are difficult to manage or audit. References:
- ISA/IEC 62443-3-3:2013 - Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 3-3: System security requirements and security levels1
- ISA/IEC 62443-2-1:2010 - Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 2-1: Establishing an industrial automation and control systems security program2
- ISA/IEC 62443-4-1:2018 - Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 4-1: Product security development life-cycle requirements3
What is the FIRST step required in implementing ISO 27001?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Create a security management organization.
Define an information security policy.
Implement strict security controls.
Perform a security risk assessment.
Answer:
DExplanation:
The first step in implementing ISO 27001, an international standard for information security management systems (ISMS), is to perform a security risk assessment. This initial step is critical as it helps identify the organization's information assets that could be at risk, assess the vulnerabilities and threats to these assets, and evaluate their potential impacts. This risk assessment forms the foundation for defining appropriate security controls and measures tailored to the organization’s specific needs. Starting with a risk assessment ensures that the security controls implemented are aligned with the actual risks the organization faces, making the ISMS more effective and targeted.ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals References:
- Although ISO 27001 is not part of ISA/IEC 62443, it shares common principles in cybersecurity management by starting with a comprehensive understanding and assessment of security risks, which is a fundamental aspect in both standards for setting up effective security practices.
At Layer 4 of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, what identifies the application that will handle a packet inside a host?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
ATCP/UDP application ID
A TCP/UDP host ID
ATCP/UDP port number
ATCP/UDP registry number
Answer:
CExplanation:
At layer 4 of the OSI model, also known as the transport layer, the application that will handle a packet inside a host is identified by a TCP/UDP port number. A port number is a 16-bit integer that is assigned to a specific application or service that runs on a host. Port numbers are used to multiplex and demultiplex the data streams that are exchanged between hosts and end systems. Multiplexing is the process of combining multiple data streams into one, while demultiplexing is the process of separating one data stream into multiple ones. Port numbers are part of the header of the transport layer protocol data unit (PDU), which is called a segment for TCP and a datagram for UDP. The header contains the source port number and the destination port number, which indicate the applications that are involved in the communication. For example, if a host sends a packet to another host using the HTTP protocol, which runs on port 80 by default, the source port number would be a random number chosen by the sender, and the destination port number would be 80. The receiver would then use the destination port number to demultiplex the packet and deliver it to the HTTP application.
Port numbers are divided into three ranges: well-known ports (0-1023), registered ports (1024-49151), and dynamic or private ports (49152-65535). Well-known ports are reserved for common and standardized applications and services, such as HTTP (80), FTP (21), and SSH (22). Registered ports are assigned by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) to specific applications and services that request them, such as Skype (49175) and Minecraft (25565). Dynamic or private ports are not assigned by any authority and can be used by any application or service that needs them, such as ephemeral ports that are used for temporary connections.
The other options are not valid identifiers for the application that will handle a packet inside a host at layer 4 of the OSI model. A TCP/UDP application ID is not a term that is used in the OSI model or the TCP/IP model. A TCP/UDP host ID is not a term that is used in the OSI model or the TCP/IP model, and it would be more appropriate for layer 3, which is the network layer, where the host is identified by an IP address. A TCP/UDP registry number is not a term that is used in the OSI model or the TCP/IP model, and it would be more appropriate for layer 5, which is the session layer, where the registry number is used to identify a session between two hosts.
References:
- Transport Layer | Layer 4 | The OSI-Model1
- OSI model - Wikipedia2
- What is Layer 4 of the OSI Model? | Glossary | A10 Networks3
- What Are the 7 Layers of the OSI Model? | Webopedia4
Which is the BEST practice when establishing security zones?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Security zones should contain assets that share common security requirements.
Security zones should align with physical network segments.
Assets within the same logical communication network should be in the same security zone.
All components in a large or complex system should be in the same security zone.
Answer:
AExplanation:
Security zones are logical groupings of assets that share common security requirements based on factors such as criticality, consequence, vulnerability, and threat. Security zones are used to apply the principle of defense in depth, which means creating multiple layers of protection to prevent or mitigate cyberattacks. By creating security zones, asset owners can isolate the most critical or sensitive assets from the less critical or sensitive ones, and apply different levels of security controls to each zone according to the risk assessment. Security zones are not necessarily aligned with physical network segments, as assets within the same network may have different security requirements. For example, a network segment may contain both a safety instrumented system (SIS) and a human-machine interface (HMI), but the SIS has a higher security requirement than the HMI. Therefore, the SIS and the HMI should be in different security zones, even if they are in the same network segment. Similarly, assets within the same logical communication network may not have the same security requirements, and therefore should not be in the same security zone. For example, a logical communication network may span across multiple physical locations, such as a plant and a corporate office, but the assets in the plant may have higher security requirements than the assets in the office. Therefore, the assets in the plant and the office should be in different security zones, even if they are in the same logical communication network. Finally, all components in a large or complex system should not be in the same security zone, as this would create a single point of failure and expose the entire system to potential cyberattacks. Instead, the components should be divided into smaller and simpler security zones, based on their security requirements, and the communication between the zones should be controlled by conduits. Conduits are logical or physical connections between security zones that allow data flow and access control. Conduits should be designed to minimize the attack surface and the potential impact of cyberattacks, by applying security controls such as firewalls, encryption, authentication, and authorization. References:
- How to Define Zones and Conduits1
- Securing industrial networks: What is ISA/IEC 62443?2
- ISA/IEC 62443 Series of Standards3
Which is the PRIMARY reason why Modbus over Ethernet is easy to manaqe in a firewall?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Modbus uses a single master to communicate with multiple slaves usinq simple commands.
Modbus is a proprietary protocol that is widely supported by vendors.
Modbus uses explicit source and destination IP addresses and a sinqle known TCP port.
Modbus has no known security vulnerabilities, so firewall rules are simple to implement.
Answer:
CExplanation:
According to the ISA/IEC 62443-2-4 standard, a training and security awareness program should include all personnel who have access to the industrial automation and control system (IACS) or who are involved in its operation, maintenance, or management. This includes vendors and suppliers, employees, temporary staff, contractors, and visitors. The purpose of the program is to ensure that all personnel are aware of the security risks and policies related to the IACS, and that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their roles in a secure manner. The program should also cover the roles and responsibilities of different personnel, the reportingprocedures for security incidents, and the best practices for security hygiene. References:
- ISA/IEC 62443-2-4:2015 - Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 2-4: Security program requirements for IACS service providers1
- ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Training Course2
Safety management staff are stakeholders of what security program development?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
CSMS
SPRP
CSA
ERM
Answer:
AExplanation:
Safety management staff are stakeholders of the CSMS, which stands for Cybersecurity Management System. The CSMS is a framework for managing the cybersecurity of industrial automation and control systems (IACS) based on the ISA/IEC 62443-2-1 standard1. The CSMS defines the objectives, policies, metrics, and governance for the overall ICS security program2. The CSMS also includes the processes for risk assessment, security design, implementation, monitoring, and improvement3. Safety management staff are involved in the CSMS development and implementation, as they are responsible for ensuring the safety of the IACS and the people, environment, and assets that depend on it. Safety management staff need to coordinate with the security management staff to align the safety and security requirements, identify and mitigate the safety risks arising from cyber threats, and monitor and respond to safety incidents caused by cyberattacks. References:
- 1: ISA/IEC 62443-2-1: Establishing an Industrial Automation and Control Systems Security Program, ISA, 2010.
- 2: A Practical Approach to Adopting the IEC 62443 Standards - ISAGCA
- 3: ISA ISA-IEC-62443 ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist Online Training - Exam4Training
- [4]: Using the ISA/IEC 62443 Standards to Secure Your Control System, ISA, 2018.
What are the connections between security zones called?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Firewalls
Tunnels
Pathways
Conduits
Answer:
DExplanation:
According to the ISA/IEC 62443 standard, the connections between security zones are called conduits. A conduit is defined as a logical or physical grouping of communication channels connecting two or more zones that share common security requirements. A conduit can be used to control and monitor the data flow between zones, and to apply security measures such as encryption, authentication, filtering, or logging. A conduit can also be used to isolate zones from each other in case of a security breach or incident. A conduit can be implemented using various technologies, such as firewalls, routers, switches, cables, or wireless links. However, these technologies are not synonymous with conduits, as they are only components of a conduit. A firewall, for example, can be used to create multiple conduits between different zones, or to protect a single zone fromexternal threats. Therefore, the other options (firewalls, tunnels, and pathways) are not correct names for the connections between security zones. References:
- ISA/IEC 62443-3-2:2016 - Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 3-2: Security risk assessment and system design1
- ISA/IEC 62443-3-3:2013 - Security for industrial automation and control systems - Part 3-3: System security requirements and security levels2
- Zones and Conduits | Tofino Industrial Security Solution3
- Key Concepts of ISA/IEC 62443: Zones & Security Levels | Dragos4
Within the National Institute of Standards and Technoloqv Cybersecuritv Framework v1.0 (NIST CSF), what is the status of the ISA 62443 standards?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
They are used as informative references.
They are used as normative references.
They are under consideration for future use.
They are not used.
Answer:
AExplanation:
The NIST CSF is a voluntary framework that provides a set of standards, guidelines, and best practices to help organizations manage cybersecurity risks. The NIST CSF consists of five core functions: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. Each function is further divided into categories and subcategories that describe specific outcomes and activities. The NIST CSF also provides informative references that link the subcategories to existing standards, guidelines, and practices that can help organizations achieve the desired outcomes. The informative references are not mandatory or exhaustive, but rather serve as examples of possible sources of guidance. The ISA 62443 standards are used as informative references in the NIST CSF v1.0 for several subcategories, especially in the Protect and Detect functions. The ISA 62443 standards are a series of standards that provide a framework for securing industrial automation and control systems (IACS). The ISA 62443 standards cover various aspects of IACS security, such as terminology, concepts, requirements, policies, procedures, and technical specifications. The ISA 62443 standards are aligned with the NIST CSF in terms of the core functions and the risk-based approach. Therefore, the ISA 62443 standards can provide useful guidance and best practices for organizations that use IACS and want to implement the NIST CSF. References:
- NIST Cybersecurity Framework - Official Site1
- Framework for Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity - Version 1.02
- ISA/IEC 62443 Standards - Official Site3
- ISA/IEC 62443 Compliance & Scoring | Centraleyes4
Who must be included in a training and security awareness program?
Available Choices (select all choices that are correct)
Options:
Vendors and suppliers
Employees
All personnel
Temporary staff
Answer:
CExplanation:
Modbus over Ethernet, also known as Modbus/TCP, is a protocol that encapsulates the Modbus/RTU data string inside the data section of the TCP frame. It then sets up a client/server exchange between nodes, using TCP/IP addressing to establish connections1. This makes it easy to manage in a firewall, because the firewall can filter the traffic based on the source and destination IP addresses and the TCP port number. The default TCP port for Modbus/TCP is 502, but it can be changed if needed. Modbus/TCP does not use any other ports or protocols, so the firewall rules can be simple and specific. References:
- 8: Open Modbus/TCP Specification, RTA Automation, 2010.
- [9]: Modbus Application Protocol Specification V1.1b3, Modbus Organization, 2012.