Ron Southworth

In reviewing material about Industrial Control Systems (ICS) there is one element that, in my opinion, is the most important factor to consider - especially in light of the recent hubbub about Stuxnet and ICS Security. That element is human centered design.

Every aspect of the control system life cycle, whether it is Concept, Design, Construction, Operation, Maintenance, Safety or Security, includes the human element. It is nothing new, but we all see time and time again where human factors, rather than technical factors play a major role in security and or safety issues.

Thanks to all the publicity around Stuxnet, there has also been growing interest regarding the reported Denial of Service (DoS) attacks against the industry mail list that I sponsor, SCADAPerspective. I want to take this opportunity to set the record straight on what actually happened back in July 2010 and to let you know why it signifies increased risk for all industrial control systems.