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Enhancing Cybersecurity in Industrial Operations

The International Society of Automation (ISA) has recently announced the release of its latest standard, ANSI/ISA-62443-2-1-2024, aiming to address the complexities of cybersecurity in industrial automation and control systems (IACS). This update is part of the ISA/IEC 62443 standards, recognized globally for providing consensus-based protocols for cybersecurity in automation.

With the increasing reliance on industrial automation across various sectors, establishing a robust cybersecurity framework is essential. The newly updated standards acknowledge that there is no universal solution; different industries have varying security needs. By focusing on organization-wide security measures, the ANSI/ISA-62443-2-1-2024 outlines comprehensive requirements for developing, implementing, and maintaining effective security programs tailored to mitigate risks associated with IACS.

The update brings several significant technical enhancements. Notably, it revises the requirement structure, categorizing them into distinct security program elements while introducing a maturity model designed to assist organizations in evaluating their cybersecurity readiness. This allows businesses to adopt a flexible approach when determining the best security practices applicable to their operations, ensuring that they meet both regulatory and operational requirements.

ISA99, the committee responsible for the development of these standards, recognizes the contributions of cybersecurity experts from around the world in creating a framework adaptable across various industries. This inclusive approach promotes a standardized strategy in addressing both current and future vulnerabilities in IACS, thereby emphasizing the importance of compliance, resilience, and continuous improvement in cybersecurity efforts.

Eric Cosman, Co-Chair of ISA99, articulated the need for balance in risk management concerning cybersecurity. He noted that the determination of security measures must take into account potential risks, which may include health, safety, or environmental aspects, rather than focusing solely on economic factors. This nuance is crucial because insufficient or overly stringent security protocols can lead to either inadequate protection against threats or excessive costs that could hinder business operations.

The ISA aims to foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness, emphasizing that the correct application of standards can lead to a more secure operational environment. Organizations are encouraged to review their current security measures against the new standards to ensure they are adequately protecting themselves against potential threats.

For more comprehensive insights into the ANSI/ISA-62443 series of standards, including documentation and resources, ISA has made materials accessible through their website at www.isa.org/62443standards.

About ISA

Founded in 1945, the International Society of Automation is a non-profit professional association dedicated to advancing automation in various sectors. The ISA’s mission is rooted in empowering the global automation community by providing standards, facilitating knowledge sharing, and hosting educational events. From developing widely utilized standards to offering certification programs, ISA plays a pivotal role in the evolution of automation and control systems worldwide.

About ISAGCA

The ISA Global Cybersecurity Alliance (ISAGCA) represents a collaborative effort to promote awareness and readiness in operational technology (OT) cybersecurity. Boasting over 50 member companies, ISAGCA encompasses diverse industry sectors, collectively generating significant revenue and involving thousands of locations globally, reinforcing the critical nature of cybersecurity standards in the modern landscape of automation.