A harmonized information security taxonomy for cyber physical systems

Abstract

Cyber physical systems (CPSs) are found in many aspects of daily life, and they control and protect energy production, manufacturing and even healthcare. Due to long lifecycles and the use of legacy technologies, its associated security comes with many challenges. Security taxonomies are useful to classify and communicate security-related information and elements. Despite the existence of numerous taxonomies, they are fragmentary, limited to only specific lifecycle phases or cover only specific aspects. A harmonized taxonomy must be applicable to all lifecycle phases of the CPS. This paper presents well-established taxonomies that are combined into a single comprehensive and harmonized taxonomy and allows application throughout the different lifecycle phases. Application of the taxonomy to real-world scenarios requires a consistent implementation methodology. The use of the harmonized taxonomy methodology is demonstrated by applying it to an actual incident case study. The taxonomy is used to identify information security gaps through its implementation in the industrial facility in question. The identified gaps are then addressed as part of the security lifecycle of the CPS. The harmonized taxonomy can be expanded to apply it to industries with specific requirements.