Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems include applications that perform vital functions and deliver core support services as part of a critical Operation Technology (OT) infrastructure. SCADA, core of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) operates at many modern industries. These systems and applications are key to providing essential services and commodities, such as energy, manufacturing, oil, gas and other utilities.
Many industries that are heavily involved with process control exploit the internet to:
- facilitate remote system access and control
- integrate supply chains
- centralize information databases
Process efficiencies are also gained by connecting private and public networks, such as enabling field devices to connect with Corporate LANs as well as the internet.
However, this can lead to a security breach to these systems and can result in severe reputational and financial consequences. The threat of a cyber-attack to SCADA systems presents a serious security risk for many organizations operating at a local, national and global level.