What is Cyber Physical Systems Security?

Understanding Cyber Physical Systems Security

Cyber Physical Systems Security addresses the unique challenges of protecting systems where digital components directly control physical processes—from industrial control systems and medical devices to autonomous vehicles and smart buildings. These environments combine traditional IT security concerns with operational technology requirements and physical safety implications, creating multi-dimensional risk scenarios. Effective security requires understanding the complex interactions between cyber and physical components, and implementing controls that address both domains. Key security elements include: strict network segmentation between operational technology and business systems, robust authentication for control system access, continuous monitoring for both cyber intrusions and physical anomalies, secure remote access solutions for vendors and maintenance personnel, and comprehensive incident response plans that address physical safety implications of security events. Organizations securing these environments face significant challenges: legacy systems designed without security considerations, operational constraints that limit patching and downtime opportunities, and convergence of previously separate IT and engineering responsibilities. As these systems become increasingly connected and autonomous, security approaches must evolve to address emerging attack vectors like sensor manipulation, machine learning poisoning, and sophisticated supply chain compromises targeting embedded components.