Secure by Design: Incorporating Cyber Security into Trains from Build

Cyber Security by Design: The Concept Defined

‘Secure by Design’ is a proactive approach to cyber security where systems are designed from the outset to be secure, rather than having security features bolted on as an afterthought. This method ensures that security is integral and embedded in every aspect of the system’s development and operation.

The importance of this approach for train builders cannot be overstated. In a world where cyber-attacks are increasingly sophisticated, rolling stock systems—like all other critical infrastructure—cannot afford to be left vulnerable. By embedding security from the design phase, builders ensure a robust system that’s less prone to vulnerabilities, thus safeguarding passengers, employees, and assets.

Historical Oversights and Their Consequences

Historically, not all systems were designed with security in mind. This oversight has led to severe repercussions:

1. The San Francisco Light Railway Incident (2016): Hackers infected the systems of the San Francisco Municipal Transport Agency with ransomware. This led to passengers riding for free over the weekend while systems were down, costing the company in lost revenue.
2. European Railway Cyber-attack (2020): An unnamed European railway system faced a cyber-attack that disrupted its signal and switching system. This led to significant delays and could have resulted in dangerous collisions.

These incidents underscore the dire need to prioritise cybersecurity from the outset.

The potential consequences of overlooking this crucial aspect are too grave to be ignored. With a proactive approach and by adhering to best practices, it’s possible to develop rolling stock systems that are both functional and secure.

Steps to Secure Rolling Stock at the Design Level

1. Risk Assessment: Before diving into design, conduct a comprehensive risk assessment. Identify potential threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework provides guidelines for this purpose.
2. Implement Zero Trust Architecture: A ‘Zero Trust’ approach assumes that threats may come from both outside and inside the organization. Implementing this design ensures robust security measures such as continuous authentication and least privilege access. (Source: “Zero Trust Architecture”, National Institute of Standards and Technology)
3. Hardware-based Security: Integrate hardware security modules (HSM) to protect data in transit and at rest. These are tamper-resistant pieces of hardware that provide cryptographic operations.
4. Secure Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC): Ensure that the software used in rolling stock systems undergoes rigorous security testing throughout its development. This includes static and dynamic code analysis, penetration testing, and regular vulnerability assessments.

Best Cyber Security Practices for Train Builders

1. Foster a Culture of Security Awareness: Regular training sessions should be organized for employees at all levels to understand the importance of cybersecurity and their roles in maintaining it.
2. Collaborate with Cybersecurity Experts: Establish partnerships with cybersecurity firms specializing in rolling stock systems. Their expertise will prove invaluable in designing secure systems.
3. Stay Updated on Security Threats: It’s essential to be proactive. Subscribe to cybersecurity bulletins, forums, and join industry groups like the International Association of Public Transport (UITP) to stay updated.
4. Implement Preventive Measures: Based on threat intelligence, adopt preventive measures such as intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and regular system patches.

Cyber Security Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Under-Allocating Resources: Security is an investment. Skimping on resources now might lead to costly breaches in the future.
2. Relying on Obscurity: Assuming that your system is safe just because it hasn’t been attacked yet can be a fatal mistake.
3. Choosing Ineffective Solutions: Not all security solutions are created equal. Ensure that you’re selecting solutions that are tried, tested, and industry-approved.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as train builders venture into the design phase, incorporating cybersecurity should not be an afterthought. The potential consequences of overlooking this crucial aspect are too grave to be ignored. With a proactive approach and by adhering to best practices, it’s possible to develop rolling stock systems that are both functional and secure.

Note: The incidents mentioned in this document are based on real events but have been modified for the purpose of this document.

For more information, or to get in touch, explore our site in more detail: pridesolutions.co.uk

References

1. NIST Cybersecurity Framework: This is a well-known framework developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The direct link to their resources can be found at: https://www.nist.gov/cyberframework
2. “Zero Trust Architecture”, National Institute of Standards and Technology: This is a reference to the concept of Zero Trust, which NIST has provided guidance on. More on their publications around this topic can be found at: https://www.nist.gov/itl/applied-cybersecurity/tig/backdrop-and-drivers
3. The International Association of Public Transport (UITP): This is a recognized international organization for public transport authorities and operators. Their resources and publications can be accessed at: https://www.uitp.org/
4. The incidents mentioned (San Francisco Light Railway Incident and the European Railway Cyber-attack) are based on general knowledge up to 2022, but specific details and reports would need to be researched for accurate references.