As the water industry digitises, utilities must be aware that the advantages of these technologies are accompanied by new vulnerabilities.
The increased connectivity of critical operations presents a significant security risk, as any unauthorised access could result in potentially disastrous disruptions to services.
Utilities that seek to gain the full benefits of emerging digital technologies will need to invest in cybersecurity devices and services to minimise the associated risks, keeping operations and customers safe.
Digital vulnerabilities
Improper maintenance of components, such as failing to update systems with the latest security patches or allowing devices to operate beyond their expected service life, can leave an operational system highly vulnerable to attack.
If these devices are compromised, they could provide adversaries with remote access to operational systems or IT network.
Malicious attackers may then attempt to steal sensitive data, either to sell, ransom or be used to move laterally within a network to access other, more sensitive systems.
Cyber-attackers can also directly ransom a facility’s operations, by preventing access and disrupting key systems until their demands are met.
Built-in security
VEGA, a global manufacturer of sensors for measuring level, point level and pressure as well as devices to support software for integration, has delivered what it believes to be the world’s first level sensor with built-in cybersecurity features.
This development comes as VEGA recognises the increasing threat of cybercrime in the water industry and is taking action to ensure that utilities can better protect their vital services.
The VEGAPULS 6X radar sensor has been developed with cyber protection as an integral component. Developed in compliance with Industrial Cyber Security Standard IEC 62443-4-2, the VEGAPULS meets the highest standards implemented in the sector.
VEGA Grieshaber KG Team Lead of Project Management, Florian Burgert, was involved in the conception of the universal level sensor from the very beginning.
“Being able to use secure measurement data at all times is now one of the most important requirements of our customers,” Mr Burgert said.“We hear this from customers in almost every industrial sector.”
The best defence
To achieve the best possible security, not only does the production system as a whole have to be secure, but all the individual components as well. Everything must comply with the standards. Especially when it comes to cyber security, plant operators want equipment they can depend on in order to stay one step ahead of the latest threats.
VEGA said that it doesn’t want to rest on its laurels. Having delivered a groundbreaking tool with the VEGAPULS, the company now intends to develop future products with cybersecurity front of mind. Protective measures will be consistently expanded to create a reliable basis for secure plant operation going forward.
For more information, visit vega.com
