How Can Cyber Threat Intelligence Help Protect Critical Infrastructure

Cyberattacks on critical infrastructure have become increasingly frequent and sophisticated. These attacks can have devastating consequences, disrupting essential services such as power grids, water supply systems, and healthcare facilities. For instance, the 2021 Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack[1] led to widespread fuel shortages across the Eastern United States highlighting the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyber threats. Similarly, the 2020 attack on the Israeli water supply system[2] demonstrated how cyber threats can endanger public health and safety.  

Challenges of protecting critical infrastructure from cyber threats

Protecting critical infrastructure from cyber threats presents unique challenges. One significant factor contributing to the vulnerability of critical infrastructure is its age. Much of the infrastructure in the United States and other developed countries was built decades ago, long before the rise of the internet and the associated cyber threats. These aging systems often rely on outdated technology and lack modern security features, making them easy targets for cyber attackers.

For example, many industrial control systems (ICS) and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, which are used to manage critical infrastructure, were designed with a focus on reliability and efficiency rather than security. As a result, these systems may have weak or non-existent authentication mechanisms, unpatched vulnerabilities, and limited monitoring capabilities. The integration of these legacy systems with modern IT networks further exacerbates their vulnerability, as it creates additional attack vectors for cyber criminals.

The cost and complexity of upgrading or replacing aging infrastructure can be prohibitive. Many organizations responsible for critical infrastructure operate on tight budgets and may lack the resources to implement comprehensive cybersecurity measures. This financial constraint often leads to a reactive approach to cybersecurity, where vulnerabilities are addressed only after an incident has occurred, rather than proactively identifying and mitigating potential threats. The sheer scale and diversity of critical infrastructure also mean that a one-size-fits-all approach to cybersecurity is impractical.  

How does cyber threat intelligence apply to protecting critical infrastructure?

Cyber threat intelligence (CTI) refers to the collection, analysis, and dissemination of information about potential or ongoing cyber threats. This intelligence is used to inform decision-making and enhance cybersecurity measures. CTI encompasses various types of information, including indicators of compromise (IoCs), tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) of threat actors, and strategic insights into emerging threats. By leveraging CTI, organizations can anticipate and mitigate cyber threats before they cause significant harm.

Different types of intelligence are needed throughout cybersecurity planning and implementation:

• Strategic: Provides high-level insights into the threat landscape, including trends, motivations, and capabilities of threat actors. This type of intelligence is crucial for long-term planning and policy development.
• Operational: Focuses on specific threats and incidents, offering actionable information that can be used to respond to ongoing attacks. This includes details about threat actors, their methods, and potential targets.
• Tactical: Involves technical details such as IoCs, malware signatures, and vulnerabilities. This intelligence is used to detect and prevent specific attacks.
• Technical: Provides in-depth analysis of cyber threats, including the tools and techniques used by attackers. This intelligence is essential for developing effective countermeasures.

How can OSINT tools assist with cyber threat intelligence for critical infrastructure?

Open-source intelligence (OSINT) tools play a vital role in cyber threat intelligence by gathering information from publicly available sources. These tools can help identify potential threats, monitor threat actor activities, and provide early warning of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure through activities such as:

• Threat actor profiling: OSINT tools can collect data from social media, forums, and other online platforms to build profiles of threat actors. This information can reveal their motivations, capabilities, and targets.
• Monitoring the dark web: The dark web is a hub for cybercriminal activities. OSINT tools can monitor dark web forums and marketplaces to identify emerging threats and gather intelligence on planned attacks.
• Identifying vulnerabilities: OSINT tools can scan public repositories, websites, and databases to identify vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure systems. This information can be used to prioritize patching and remediation efforts.
• Situational awareness: OSINT tools provide real-time monitoring of global events and trends that could impact critical infrastructure. This includes geopolitical developments, natural disasters, and other factors that could influence cyber threats.

OSINT tools leverage publicly available information (PAI), reducing the need for expensive proprietary data sources. Applications like Babel Street Insights provide access to a wide range of sources so organizations gain a holistic view of the threat landscape without needing to collect or manage multiple data feeds. Real-time monitoring and alerts enable rapid response to emerging threats, while easy integration with existing cybersecurity systems can enhance their overall effectiveness.

What’s the future of cyber threat intelligence for protecting critical infrastructure?

Looking ahead, cyber threat intelligence for critical infrastructure will likely involve greater automation and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze vast amounts of data. AI-powered OSINT tools can identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate cyber threats, providing more accurate and timely intelligence. Additionally, the integration of CTI with other cybersecurity measures, such as threat hunting and incident response, will enhance the overall security of critical infrastructure. Collaboration between public and private sectors will also be crucial in sharing intelligence and developing comprehensive defense strategies.

By leveraging OSINT tools, organizations can gather valuable intelligence, monitor threat actor activities, and identify vulnerabilities. The adoption of OSINT tools as part of a comprehensive CTI program offers numerous benefits, including cost-effectiveness, real-time intelligence, and enhanced collaboration. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the future of CTI will involve greater automation and AI integration, ensuring that critical infrastructure remains secure and resilient.

Endnotes

[1] CISA, “The Attack on Colonial Pipeline: What We’ve Learned & What We’ve Done Over the Past Two Years,” May 7, 2023, https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/news/attack-colonial-pipeline-what-weve-learned-what-weve-done-over-past-two-years

[2] The Washington Post, “Foreign intelligence officials say attempted cyberattack on Israeli water utilities linked to Iran.” May 8, 2020, https://cyberlaw.ccdcoe.org/wiki/Israel%E2%80%99s_water_facilities_attack_%282020%29