Guarding the core: Forging 100% secure industrial control systems in manufacturing with advanced cybersecurity approach

Bosch SDS empowers a leading manufacturer with stringent regulatory compliance through advanced auditing, risk evaluation, and cybersecurity solutions for their industrial control systems (ICS).

Industry: Manufacturing

Challenge:

The client, a manufacturing leader, faced significant threats from infections targeting their Industrial Control Systems (ICS). These infections could manipulate values, alter functionalities, or block access to critical assets, leading to malfunctions, data corruption, or even physical damage. The primary challenge was to protect these systems from such threats while maintaining operational integrity and security.

Solutions used:

  • Regular system audits and risk evaluations in accordance with IEC 62443 standards.
  • Network segregation and segmentation implemented as per IEC 62443 guidelines.
  • Authentication safeguards deployed, including pre-shared keys, tokens, and one-time passwords, to enhance access control.

Tech stack

Identity and Access Management (IAM) stack

OT Security

Nessus

BurpSuite

Centralized Authentication Systems

Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS)

Network Segregation and Segmentation stack

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Systems

Impact

92%
increase in efficiency
100%
secure ICS systems
Proactive vulnerability management
High-performance security framework
Robust access control measures
Improved regulatory compliance and industry credibility

Business problem

Immersive Journey

The manufacturing industry faces significant macro-level challenges that increase vulnerability to cyber threats. Rapid technological advancements, including increasing penetration of IoT devices, surging connectivity, and high demand for smarter personalized devices and processes, have broadened the attack surface – making them more susceptible to sophisticated cyber threats. ICSs are the most targeted by cybercriminals lately – the more sensitive business-critical information is, the higher the ransom demand. Moreover, the growing complexity of global supply chains and the constant pressure to optimize production efficiency can create gaps in security protocols. Business leaders often end up trading off security for short-term profits due to higher establishment overheads. Navigating evolving global regulatory compliance requirements further complicates matters for manufacturers as they fall short in technological, financial, or workforce aspects. Compounding these issues is a shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals, hampering the industry’s ability to implement effective defense strategies against looming cyber attacks.

In this challenging environment, our client, a leading manufacturer, encountered a critical issue – their ICS network was at risk of infections designed to target and manipulate key assets. These infections could alter control values, disrupt functionality, or block access to vital operations. The consequences of a successful attack extend beyond mere disruptions; they could lead to asset malfunctions, data corruption, or even physical damage to critical infrastructure. With the integrity and safety of their operations at stake, the manufacturer recognized the urgent need for a robust solution to detect, prevent, and mitigate these threats in real-time.

Bosch SDS in action

Our two-decades old partnership with the manufacturing company enabled our experts to gain a comprehensive understanding of their infrastructure, processes, and culture. We formed a dedicated project team of specialists to implement a tailored cyber security stack specifically designed for Operational Technology (OT) security. This engagement focussed on enhancing the firm’s ICS security, which could protect them against potential infections that could compromise operations. This multi-faceted approach included the following key initiatives:

Conducting regular system audits and risk evaluations in accordance with IEC 62443 standards, enabling proactive identification of vulnerabilities and risks within the ICS environment.
Implementing network segregation and segmentation to enhance security, ensuring that critical systems are isolated from potential threats and reducing the attack surface as per IEC 62443 guidelines.
Deploying robust authentication safeguards, including pre-shared keys, tokens, and one-time passwords, to strengthen access controls and prevent unauthorized access to essential systems.

Shaping timeless impact

Our tailored approach helped the manufacturer protect their ICS while opening new growth opportunities. The strong security measures implemented through our collaboration strengthened their digital infrastructure, enabling them to meet the rising demand for manufactured goods while ensuring ongoing operational integrity and resilience.

92% increase in efficiency

100% secure ICS systems

7 classes of new risks identified and mitigated

Improved risk management

Enhanced security posture

Strengthened access control

Compliance assurance

Operational continuity

The Bosch SDS edge

Immersive Journey

At Bosch SDS, we go beyond conventional cybersecurity strategies and solutions – leveraging AI, GenAI, advanced analytics, and more, complemented by industry-grade best practices to stay ahead of cyber threats in manufacturing. Rather than just conducting audits, we foster a culture of continuous improvement, enabling manufacturers to improve cybersecurity controls and ensure stringent compliance. This approach empowered the client to make informed decisions, aligning their security with production goals and ensuring their facilities are well-prepared for future demands in a competitive industry.

Immersive Journey
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