Airports are vital hubs of infrastructure that control everything from passenger logistics to security through interconnected systems. Together, the baggage handling systems, workstations with HMIs controlling PLCs, loading systems, HVAC systems, DCS, and SCADA systems effectively deliver a dependable service around-the-clock. Any disruption in operations can have serious repercussions. These include dangers to passenger’s health and safety as well as the health and safety of airport staff, downtime for vital activities, and financial losses for both the airport and its patrons. For this reason, to secure your airport, you need a critical infrastructure cybersecurity partner with experience and established industry credentials.
Gramax’s tried-and-true IT and OT cybersecurity solutions can help you meet all security needs while enhancing your operational and asset visibility, cyber resilience, and compliance capabilities. This entails adopting a zero-trust strategy for infrastructure security, actionable asset visibility, and early threat identification and response, including rogue insider activities.
Challenges
Ransomware Attacks
- Ransomware can cripple airport operations by encrypting critical data and demanding ransom payments for its release. This can result in significant financial losses and operational disruptions.
System Outages
- IT systems are integral to the smooth functioning of airport services. Attacks that cause system outages can lead to flight delays, lost baggage, and compromised safety.
Vulnerability of Legacy Systems
- Many OT systems in airports, such as runway lighting, HVAC systems, and security screening equipment, are legacy systems that were not designed with modern cybersecurity threats in mind. These systems are often outdated and lack the necessary security features to fend off cyber-attacks.
Interconnected Systems
- The increasing integration of IT and OT systems can create vulnerabilities where cyber threats can move laterally across networks, potentially disrupting both digital and physical operations.
Physical Security Risks
- OT systems are not only vulnerable to cyber-attacks but also to physical tampering, which can lead to dangerous and disruptive consequences.
Solution
- Comprehensive Security ProtocolsGramax develops stringent security frameworks and standards for integrated IT and OT systems.
- Risk assessment At Gramax, we conduct regular and extensive risk assessments to identify weaknesses in our IT and OT systems. This forward-thinking approach helps us focus our security efforts based on the potential impact and likelihood of identified threats. All IT and OT systems are diligently updated and patched to address existing security gaps.
- Access ControlStrict access control measures are implemented wherein zero-trust security paradigm is adopted to ensure only authorized personnel can access critical systems.
- OT SOCGramax integrates OT SOC along with existing IT SOC to enhance threat hunting, threat detection, and incident response and automate measures to ensure operational resilience.
- Cybersecurity DrillsWe plan cyber crisis management plans and conduct cybersecurity drills to prepare for potential incidents.
- Cyber HygieneThe airport staff is regularly trained in first responder and skilling programs.
- Regulatory Standards ComplianceGRAMAX helps clients to stay up to date with and compliant with relevant regulations and standards. Detailed documentation and reporting of security protocols and incidents are upheld to meet regulatory criteria.