Component Security Isolation for Compromised Control Hardware
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Solution Overview
Problem
Control systems are vulnerable to internal cyberattacks, as perimeter security systems cannot detect or adequately respond to compromised components within the internal electronic communication infrastructure, leading to potential damage and harm.
Innovation Solution
A component security device is deployed between control system components and infrastructure, capable of isolating compromised components by interrupting electrical connections and disconnecting them from services, even if they refuse to comply with commands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If perimeter security systems are used to protect control system infrastructure, then external cyberattacks can be detected, but internal attacks on compromised components cannot be detected or adequately responded to
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into multiple isolated segments, each protected by its own security device. Instead of a single perimeter security system, multiple security devices are deployed at different levels (component-level, device-level, system-level) to create layered security zones. This segmentation allows internal attacks on specific components to be detected and contained without affecting the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary security devices (firewalls, intrusion detection systems, security gateways) positioned between different system components and the external network. These intermediaries monitor and filter traffic, detecting malicious internal communications that perimeter systems would miss. The intermediaries act as mediators that can identify and block attacks originating from compromised components while allowing legitimate traffic to pass.
2Productivity
If compromised components are allowed to remain connected to the control system, then system functionality is maintained, but the components can continue to disrupt operation and cause damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic security policies that automatically adjust connection states based on detected threats. Security devices can dynamically isolate compromised components by modifying firewall rules, blocking network connections, or physically disconnecting components without requiring full system shutdown. This dynamic response maintains productivity for healthy components while containing harmful effects from compromised ones.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements backup components and redundant system paths that can take over functionality before compromised components cause catastrophic failure. Security devices monitor component health and pre-position backup resources, allowing seamless failover when compromise is detected. This cushioning approach maintains operational continuity while isolating harmful components.
3Ease of operation
If compromised components ignore or block control system commands, then the security system cannot isolate them through normal command channels, but they continue to inject malicious data and disrupt operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where security devices continuously monitor component behavior and automatically respond to anomalies. When a component ignores commands or exhibits suspicious behavior, the security device receives feedback about the anomaly and automatically triggers isolation procedures. This closed-loop feedback system eliminates the need for manual isolation commands that compromised components could block.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables security devices to autonomously manage isolation of compromised components without requiring commands from potentially compromised control systems. Security devices self-monitor component health, self-decide when isolation is necessary, and self-execute isolation actions through physical disconnects or network blocking. This self-service capability ensures isolation occurs even when normal command channels are compromised.
Data Source
AI summary
A component security device may be disposed at an interface between a component and a cyber-physical system. The disclosed component security device may be physically and/or electrically coupled between the component and infrastructure of the cyber-physical system, such as a backplane, bus, and/or the like. The component security device may be configured to monitor the component, and selectively isolate the component from the cyber-physical system. Since the component security device is interposed at the interface of the component, the component security device may be capable of isolating the component regardless of whether the component has been compromised (e.g., regardless of whether the component is capable of complying with system commands).