ICS410™ Guide: Industrial Control System Security Certification

In the modern, interconnected landscape of industrial operations, safeguarding Industrial Control Systems (ICS) is no longer an optional consideration. As industrial sectors evolve and integrate with new technologies, the threats to these systems are becoming increasingly complex. The cybersecurity of ICS is not just about defending IT systems but also about protecting the backbone of modern society, which includes energy grids, water treatment facilities, manufacturing plants, transportation networks, and more. These systems are pivotal to ensuring the safe and efficient operation of many critical infrastructures.

With the growing prominence of operational technology (OT) in industries, securing ICS/SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems has become a pressing concern. ICS environments, once isolated and standalone, are now integrated into wider network infrastructures, thus making them susceptible to sophisticated cyberattacks. A breach in an ICS can lead to catastrophic consequences – ranging from industrial accidents to massive disruptions in public services. As a result, ICS security requires a specialized skill set and a deep understanding of the unique challenges inherent in protecting these systems.

The Evolution of ICS and the Increasing Threat Landscape

ICS has evolved significantly over the past few decades. Originally designed to control and monitor industrial processes, these systems were isolated from the broader internet, creating a somewhat secure environment. However, as industries have become more interconnected, these systems are now exposed to a wider array of cyber threats. The convergence of IT and OT is transforming industrial operations by leveraging technologies like cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced analytics. These advancements have led to significant improvements in efficiency and automation but have also introduced new vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit.

Today, ICS networks are highly interconnected, with increased reliance on cloud-based platforms and remote management. This interconnectivity provides attackers with more entry points, increasing the risk of cyberattacks such as ransomware, denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, and even nation-state sponsored threats targeting critical infrastructure. Threat actors may seek to disable industrial operations, steal sensitive information, or even cause physical damage to equipment, which can have far-reaching consequences. The malicious exploitation of ICS vulnerabilities can result in long-term disruptions to manufacturing lines, hazardous spills, equipment malfunctions, and even safety hazards to workers and the surrounding community.

The stakes are high. While traditional IT security is essential, the risks associated with ICS security are even greater. A breach of an ICS can lead to disastrous consequences, not only for a company but for an entire city or even an entire nation. Cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure can shut down power grids, contaminate water supplies, cause manufacturing shutdowns, and disrupt transportation systems. In extreme cases, these attacks could even endanger human lives. This underscores the importance of training professionals who can secure these systems and mitigate the evolving risks in this highly specialized field.

The Role of ICS410™ in Securing ICS/SCADA Systems

To address the growing need for specialized ICS security professionals, certifications like the ICS410™ have been introduced. ICS410™: ICS/SCADA Security Essentials is an industry-recognized certification that focuses on the cybersecurity challenges of ICS and SCADA systems. This certification provides professionals with the knowledge and tools to secure industrial control systems from the ground up. It helps them understand the unique architecture, protocols, and threats that are inherent to these systems, enabling them to defend against modern cyberattacks effectively.

The ICS410™ certification validates a professional’s ability to implement secure engineering principles, monitor industrial networks, deploy network intrusion detection systems, and manage the incident response process. Additionally, it equips professionals with the knowledge to design secure architectures for ICS environments, perform risk assessments, and develop incident recovery strategies that prioritize safety and operational continuity. By providing in-depth knowledge of the vulnerabilities inherent in industrial protocols like Modbus, DNP3, and BACnet, the certification prepares candidates to address the challenges associated with securing ICS/SCADA environments.

In essence, the ICS410™ certification bridges the gap between cybersecurity and operational technology. With a focus on both technical expertise and practical knowledge, the certification is ideal for professionals who are tasked with protecting critical infrastructure from cyber threats. It is especially relevant for control systems engineers, OT network engineers, and cybersecurity analysts working in sectors like energy, manufacturing, and utilities.

The Growing Demand for ICS Cybersecurity Professionals

As the risks associated with ICS breaches continue to grow, the demand for cybersecurity professionals specializing in ICS security is on the rise. Organizations are actively seeking experts who can protect their industrial networks from cyber threats. The ICS410™ certification provides a pathway for professionals to enter the field of ICS cybersecurity, offering them the tools and knowledge needed to secure critical infrastructure and reduce the potential impact of cyberattacks.

The primary goal of ICS410™ is to empower professionals to identify vulnerabilities, apply relevant security measures, and develop incident response strategies that minimize the impact of potential breaches. To accomplish this, professionals are required to understand the intricacies of industrial protocols and be able to navigate the complex network architectures of ICS environments.

ICS security professionals are tasked with ensuring that industrial processes are continuously monitored, and any anomalies are detected early. They must implement strong defenses to prevent attacks and ensure that the organization’s systems and operations are resilient to disruptions. As cyberattacks against critical infrastructure become more sophisticated, the role of ICS security experts has never been more crucial.

Key Concepts in ICS Security

Securing ICS systems is a highly specialized field, and professionals need to be well-versed in several key concepts and practices to effectively defend against threats. Some of the core areas covered in the ICS410™ certification include:

• ICS Architecture & Network Design: Understanding the underlying architecture of ICS is critical. The Purdue Model, which provides a framework for segmenting network zones and devices, is central to ICS network security. Proper segmentation can limit the spread of cyberattacks and contain potential damage by ensuring that different components of the ICS network are isolated.
  
  

• Industrial Protocols & Vulnerabilities: ICS environments rely on protocols like Modbus, DNP3, and BACnet to communicate and manage processes. These protocols, while effective, also present unique security risks, such as inadequate encryption and authentication mechanisms. Understanding these protocols’ vulnerabilities and implementing appropriate defenses is key to ensuring the security of ICS systems.
  
  

• Defensive Strategies: Implementing intrusion detection systems (IDS), network monitoring tools, and network segmentation strategies are fundamental to securing ICS systems. Professionals must know how to design secure network architectures that balance accessibility with security.
  
  

• Incident Response & Recovery: Cyberattacks on ICS systems often lead to significant disruptions in industrial operations. Developing robust incident response protocols tailored to ICS environments is essential for minimizing the impact of breaches. Additionally, professionals must know how to recover quickly from an attack, ensuring that operations can resume with minimal downtime.
  
  

• Governance, Risk, and Compliance: ICS environments are subject to various regulatory frameworks and industry standards. Understanding the legal and compliance requirements specific to OT systems is crucial for ensuring that organizations adhere to the necessary security and safety guidelines.

The Value of ICS410™ for Professionals

The ICS410™ certification holds significant value for professionals looking to advance their careers in ICS cybersecurity. With the increasing importance of securing critical infrastructure, the certification provides a way for individuals to demonstrate their expertise and readiness to handle the complexities of ICS security. For control systems engineers transitioning into cybersecurity, or IT professionals looking to expand into OT, ICS410™ offers a clear pathway to developing the specialized skills needed to protect industrial systems.

The certification is highly regarded by employers in industries such as energy, manufacturing, utilities, and transportation. Organizations are actively seeking professionals who can effectively identify vulnerabilities, apply security measures, and respond to incidents within ICS environments. The ICS410™ credential serves as proof that an individual has the expertise to secure critical infrastructure and mitigate the risks associated with cyber threats.

Advanced ICS Security Measures: Protecting Critical Infrastructure from Evolving Threats

As the world becomes more interconnected, the risks to critical infrastructure from cyber threats continue to grow. Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, which once operated in isolation, are now connected to broader networks, leaving them vulnerable to a range of cyberattacks. To effectively protect these systems, organizations must take a proactive approach to cybersecurity by implementing advanced measures that address both the unique challenges of ICS and the evolving nature of modern threats.

In this section, we will explore advanced security strategies for ICS systems, including the integration of cutting-edge technologies, the importance of threat intelligence, and the implementation of best practices to minimize vulnerabilities. The primary focus will be on ensuring that ICS environments are resilient, secure, and able to withstand the growing sophistication of cyberattacks.

The Importance of Defense-in-Depth for ICS Systems

A fundamental principle of ICS cybersecurity is defense-in-depth, which involves implementing multiple layers of security to protect critical assets. Since industrial control systems are often targeted by advanced, multi-faceted attacks, relying on a single security measure is insufficient. Instead, organizations must combine several strategies and technologies to create a robust defense against cyber threats.

At the core of defense-in-depth is the principle of segmentation. Network segmentation involves dividing the ICS network into different zones based on risk and sensitivity. For example, a control network that directly manages operational processes should be isolated from the corporate network. This minimizes the chances of an attacker exploiting vulnerabilities in one network and moving laterally to compromise more critical systems.

In addition to segmentation, defense-in-depth for ICS systems includes firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and endpoint security solutions. Firewalls can block unauthorized access, while IDS/IPS systems monitor network traffic for signs of malicious activity. Endpoint security, including antivirus software and application whitelisting, ensures that the individual devices and control stations within the ICS environment are protected from threats. These technologies, when implemented together, provide a comprehensive defense against a variety of attack vectors.

Leveraging Threat Intelligence for ICS Security

Cybersecurity is not a static field, and as new vulnerabilities and attack methods are discovered, organizations must remain agile in their defense strategies. One way to stay ahead of potential threats is through threat intelligence. By integrating threat intelligence into the ICS security framework, organizations can better anticipate and respond to emerging threats.

Threat intelligence involves collecting, analyzing, and sharing information about current and potential cyber threats. For ICS systems, this may include data on known attack techniques, vulnerabilities in industrial protocols, and information on adversaries targeting critical infrastructure. Threat intelligence platforms (TIPs) can automate the collection and analysis of this data, providing real-time insights into evolving threats. These insights can then be used to inform security measures and improve the overall defense posture.

In the context of ICS, threat intelligence can be particularly valuable for detecting advanced persistent threats (APTs). APTs are typically carried out by skilled adversaries who use sophisticated tactics to infiltrate systems and maintain long-term access. By understanding the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) employed by threat actors, organizations can develop tailored defense mechanisms to detect and neutralize these threats before they cause significant damage.

Furthermore, collaboration within the ICS security community plays a crucial role in the sharing of threat intelligence. Industry groups, government agencies, and private-sector partners can share information on emerging threats and vulnerabilities, which helps to create a more comprehensive and timely understanding of the threat landscape. By leveraging shared intelligence, organizations can better protect their ICS systems from attacks that may otherwise go undetected.

Securing Industrial Protocols: A Specialized Challenge

One of the defining characteristics of ICS systems is their reliance on industrial protocols such as Modbus, DNP3, BACnet, and OPC. While these protocols are essential for facilitating communication between control devices, they often lack the robust security features found in modern IT protocols. Many industrial protocols were designed with a focus on functionality and performance rather than security, which makes them vulnerable to exploitation.

To address this challenge, organizations must implement security measures that specifically target industrial protocols. This includes deploying specialized protocol analysis tools that can monitor network traffic and identify any abnormal or malicious behavior associated with these protocols. These tools can detect issues such as unauthorized devices communicating over the network or attempts to manipulate control commands.

In addition to monitoring, organizations should also consider encrypting communications over industrial protocols whenever possible. Encryption helps to ensure that even if an attacker gains access to the network, the data being transmitted is unreadable without the correct decryption key. While encryption can add overhead to network traffic, it significantly enhances the security of sensitive control systems.

Furthermore, organizations should implement strict access controls and authentication measures for devices that communicate over industrial protocols. By ensuring that only authorized devices can communicate within the ICS network, the risk of unauthorized access is greatly reduced.

Security for Remote Access and IoT Integration

The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) and remote access capabilities into ICS environments introduces both convenience and significant security challenges. Remote access allows authorized personnel to monitor and control industrial systems from anywhere, which can be especially useful for managing geographically dispersed operations. However, it also opens the door for attackers to exploit vulnerabilities in remote access technologies.

To secure remote access to ICS systems, organizations should implement robust authentication and authorization mechanisms. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is one of the most effective ways to ensure that only legitimate users can access the system. By requiring multiple forms of verification, such as passwords and hardware tokens, MFA makes it much harder for attackers to gain unauthorized access.

In addition to MFA, organizations should ensure that remote access is only allowed over secure communication channels. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols can be used to encrypt communication between remote users and ICS systems. This ensures that data in transit is protected from interception or tampering.

As more IoT devices are integrated into ICS environments, their security must also be carefully managed. IoT devices are often connected to ICS networks and can serve as entry points for attackers. These devices should be treated with the same level of scrutiny as other control system components. This includes ensuring that they are regularly updated with the latest security patches, monitoring them for signs of compromise, and securing communication channels between IoT devices and the ICS network.

Incident Response and Recovery for ICS Systems

Even with the most advanced security measures in place, no system is completely immune to cyber threats. As such, organizations must be prepared to respond to security incidents swiftly and effectively. A well-defined incident response plan is essential for minimizing the damage caused by an attack and ensuring a quick recovery.

The first step in incident response is detection. Organizations should implement security monitoring systems that provide continuous visibility into their ICS environments. Intrusion detection systems (IDS), security information and event management (SIEM) solutions, and network monitoring tools can help identify suspicious activity and potential security breaches. The faster a threat is detected, the quicker an organization can respond to mitigate its impact.

Once an incident is detected, organizations must follow a predefined response process that includes containment, eradication, and recovery. Containment involves isolating affected systems to prevent the attack from spreading. Eradication involves removing the threat from the environment, such as deleting malware or disabling compromised accounts. Recovery focuses on restoring normal operations while ensuring that the same vulnerabilities that allowed the attack to occur are addressed.

Finally, post-incident analysis is crucial for understanding the root cause of the attack and improving the organization’s defenses. By conducting thorough forensics and analyzing the incident, organizations can identify gaps in their security posture and implement corrective actions to prevent future incidents.

: ICS Threats and Vulnerabilities: Identifying and Mitigating Risks in Critical Infrastructure

Industrial Control Systems (ICS) play a crucial role in modern society by managing essential infrastructure such as power grids, water treatment plants, manufacturing systems, and transportation networks. However, the increasing interconnectivity of ICS with broader IT networks, cloud services, and the Internet of Things (IoT) has led to heightened vulnerabilities and risks. Cyberattacks targeting ICS systems can have devastating consequences, including operational disruptions, financial loss, and damage to public safety. The ability to identify, assess, and mitigate these risks is therefore critical to the protection of critical infrastructure.

This section explores the common threats and vulnerabilities facing ICS environments, detailing both the technical and human factors that contribute to their exposure. It also provides insights into the best practices and advanced strategies for mitigating these risks, thereby enhancing the overall resilience of ICS systems.

Understanding ICS Threats: A Complex Landscape

ICS environments are designed to operate securely and efficiently, controlling physical processes in industries that cannot afford downtime or malfunction. However, the complexity of these systems, combined with their aging infrastructure and evolving cyber threats, makes them highly susceptible to attacks. ICS vulnerabilities are often exploited through a combination of technical flaws, human error, and social engineering tactics. To address these challenges, it is essential to first understand the primary threats targeting ICS systems.

1. Malware and Ransomware Attacks

Malware and ransomware are some of the most prevalent threats facing ICS systems today. Cybercriminals frequently use malware to compromise systems, steal sensitive information, or disable critical infrastructure. Ransomware attacks, in particular, have become a major concern in recent years, where cybercriminals encrypt valuable data or lock down entire systems and demand a ransom for restoration.

ICS systems are especially vulnerable to malware because they often use outdated software and hardware that lack robust security mechanisms. Attackers can use phishing emails, malicious downloads, or even USB drives to introduce malware into the system. Once inside, malware can disrupt operations, damage equipment, and even cause physical harm in cases where the control systems govern safety-critical processes.

To mitigate this risk, ICS operators must regularly update their systems, implement strong access controls, and educate staff about the dangers of phishing and social engineering attacks. Regular system backups and the implementation of incident response plans are also essential to ensuring that ransomware attacks can be swiftly contained and recovered from.

2. Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) are sophisticated, long-term attacks carried out by skilled adversaries – often state-sponsored groups. APTs target ICS systems in an effort to steal intellectual property, gather intelligence, or disrupt operations. These attackers use highly specialized techniques to infiltrate networks, maintain access, and operate undetected for extended periods.

The primary danger of APTs lies in their stealth and persistence. Unlike traditional attacks that aim for quick results, APT attackers often take months or even years to fully infiltrate a system, collecting information and slowly manipulating control systems without being detected. This makes them particularly dangerous to critical infrastructure.

To defend against APTs, ICS systems need to implement robust network monitoring tools, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and endpoint protection mechanisms. Regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and the integration of threat intelligence are essential for identifying potential APT activities and preventing them from gaining a foothold in the system.

3. Insider Threats

Insider threats are a significant concern for ICS security. These threats come from individuals who have authorized access to ICS systems, such as employees, contractors, or third-party vendors. Insiders may intentionally or unintentionally compromise the integrity and security of ICS systems by mishandling sensitive data, misconfiguring systems, or intentionally sabotaging operations.

Insider threats are difficult to detect because the perpetrators already have legitimate access to the systems they compromise. For example, a disgruntled employee could intentionally cause damage or disable critical systems, while an untrained operator might inadvertently introduce vulnerabilities or misconfigure settings.

To mitigate insider threats, organizations should implement strict access control measures, ensuring that employees and vendors only have access to the systems and data they need to perform their jobs. Privileged account management (PAM) tools can help restrict and monitor access to sensitive systems. Additionally, regular security training and awareness programs for employees are crucial in reducing the likelihood of human error.

4. Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks

Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks are designed to overwhelm ICS networks, making them unavailable to legitimate users. These attacks can be particularly harmful in ICS environments, where even brief interruptions can lead to severe consequences, such as production downtime or safety hazards.

In a DoS attack, a single source sends a massive amount of traffic to a system, attempting to exhaust its resources and render it unusable. In a DDoS attack, the attacker uses a network of compromised devices, known as a botnet, to launch a coordinated attack from multiple sources. DDoS attacks are harder to mitigate because they involve many different points of origin.

To defend against DoS and DDoS attacks, organizations should implement traffic filtering and rate-limiting techniques, as well as redundant network architectures to ensure continued operation during an attack. Intrusion detection systems can be used to detect abnormal traffic patterns and trigger alerts when potential attacks are detected. Additionally, organizations can leverage cloud-based DDoS protection services to help mitigate large-scale attacks.

5. Zero-Day Vulnerabilities

Zero-day vulnerabilities refer to flaws in software or hardware that are unknown to the vendor and have not been patched. These vulnerabilities can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access, manipulate control systems, or launch attacks. Zero-day exploits are particularly dangerous because they are not detected by traditional security tools and are often used in targeted attacks.

ICS systems are often running legacy software that may no longer be supported or updated by the vendor, making them especially vulnerable to zero-day attacks. When a vulnerability is discovered and exploited, the attacker can compromise the system before a patch or fix is available.

To mitigate the risks posed by zero-day vulnerabilities, organizations should regularly conduct security assessments to identify potential weaknesses and apply security patches as soon as they are available. Where possible, organizations should also isolate legacy systems from the broader network to reduce the likelihood of exploitation.

ICS Vulnerabilities: A Closer Look

Identifying vulnerabilities within ICS environments is a critical part of protecting against cyber threats. While ICS systems are designed to control physical processes, they often contain technical weaknesses that attackers can exploit. Common ICS vulnerabilities include:

1. Legacy Systems and Software

Many ICS environments rely on legacy systems and software that were designed without considering modern cybersecurity best practices. These outdated systems often lack essential security features such as encryption, authentication, and secure communication protocols. Moreover, they are frequently no longer supported by vendors, making it difficult to obtain security patches and updates.

The reliance on legacy systems is a significant vulnerability in ICS, as attackers can easily exploit known flaws in outdated software to gain access to critical systems. To mitigate this, organizations must develop a comprehensive upgrade and modernization strategy that addresses the vulnerabilities in legacy systems while ensuring that security is built into new systems from the start.

2. Unpatched Software

Unpatched software is another common vulnerability in ICS environments. When software vendors release security patches or updates, organizations may fail to install them due to operational constraints, resource limitations, or oversight. As a result, unpatched systems remain vulnerable to known exploits that could compromise the integrity of ICS networks.

To reduce the risk of unpatched software, organizations should establish a formal patch management process that ensures all software and hardware components are regularly updated. Automated patching systems can help streamline this process and reduce the risk of human error.

3. Weak Authentication Mechanisms

ICS systems often rely on weak or outdated authentication mechanisms, which can make it easier for attackers to gain unauthorized access. Weak passwords, lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA), and inadequate user access controls are all contributing factors to this vulnerability.

To enhance authentication security, organizations should implement strong password policies, ensure that MFA is used wherever possible, and adopt role-based access control (RBAC) to ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive systems.

4. Poor Network Segmentation

Many ICS networks lack proper segmentation, which can make it easier for attackers to move laterally within the network and access critical systems. For example, if an attacker compromises an IT network that is connected to an ICS network, they may be able to escalate privileges and take control of industrial control devices.

To address this vulnerability, organizations should implement robust network segmentation strategies. This involves isolating critical ICS systems from IT networks, using firewalls and access controls to limit communication between different network segments, and ensuring that the most sensitive systems are placed in highly secure network zones.

Mitigating ICS Risks: Best Practices and Strategies

Protecting ICS systems requires a comprehensive approach that combines advanced security measures, regular assessments, and a culture of vigilance across the organization. The following best practices are essential for mitigating risks and enhancing the security of ICS environments.

1. Conduct Regular Risk Assessments

Risk assessments should be conducted regularly to identify vulnerabilities in ICS systems and prioritize remediation efforts. These assessments should consider both technical and human factors, including potential insider threats, weak access controls, and gaps in security policies.

2. Implement Strong Security Controls

Security controls such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and multi-factor authentication (MFA) are essential for protecting ICS systems from cyber threats. Regularly updating these controls and incorporating them into a broader security strategy will help strengthen defenses.

3. Develop a Comprehensive Incident Response Plan

Organizations must have a detailed incident response plan in place to quickly detect and respond to security breaches. This plan should include procedures for isolating affected systems, containing the attack, and restoring operations to minimize the impact of an incident.

4. Create a Culture of Security Awareness

Building a culture of security awareness is essential to mitigating human error and insider threats. Regular training and awareness programs for employees, contractors, and third-party vendors will help ensure that everyone understands the importance of cybersecurity and follows best practices.

Conclusion: 

As the world becomes increasingly dependent on interconnected and automated systems, the importance of securing Industrial Control Systems (ICS) cannot be overstated. These systems are the backbone of critical infrastructure, from power grids and water treatment plants to manufacturing facilities and transportation networks. The impact of a cyberattack on ICS can be catastrophic – resulting in financial loss, safety risks, and major operational disruptions. Therefore, understanding the risks and vulnerabilities associated with ICS is essential for safeguarding these vital systems against modern cyber threats.

The threats to ICS are varied and sophisticated, ranging from malware and ransomware to advanced persistent threats (APTs), insider threats, and Denial of Service (DoS) attacks. Additionally, many ICS environments are plagued by outdated software, weak authentication mechanisms, and poor network segmentation, all of which create significant vulnerabilities. These threats highlight the importance of constant vigilance, proactive risk management, and a robust security infrastructure that can adapt to evolving cyber challenges.

To mitigate these risks, organizations must adopt a multi-layered security approach that combines technological solutions, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and multi-factor authentication, with strong organizational practices. Regular risk assessments, continuous monitoring, employee training, and incident response planning are all essential components of a comprehensive ICS security strategy.

Equally important is the ongoing modernization and upgrading of legacy systems, which often represent a significant source of vulnerability in ICS environments. By implementing secure design principles, patch management processes, and proper network segmentation, organizations can minimize the attack surface and reduce the likelihood of successful exploits.

Ultimately, the security of ICS systems relies on a holistic approach – one that integrates the latest technologies, best practices, and a culture of security awareness across all levels of an organization. In an age where cyberattacks are becoming more frequent and sophisticated, the resilience of critical infrastructure depends on the ability to anticipate, identify, and neutralize threats before they can cause harm.

By prioritizing the security of ICS systems, organizations not only protect their own operations but also contribute to the stability and safety of society at large. The growing interconnectedness of critical infrastructure demands that both private and public sectors work together to ensure the integrity and reliability of the systems that keep the world running.