Listen to this Post
The post discusses Rajvir Singh’s collaboration with OTee to create content around virtual PLCs, IIoT, and Industry 4.0. This partnership will include video tutorials, discussions, and hands-on guides related to Operational Technology (OT) and Industrial IoT.
You Should Know:
1. Virtual PLCs & Cybersecurity Concerns
Virtual PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) are software-based controllers that emulate physical PLCs. Since they often run on Linux or Windows, they introduce cybersecurity risks.
Key Commands for Securing Linux-Based Virtual PLCs:
Check running processes related to PLC emulation ps aux | grep -i "plc|otee" Monitor network connections sudo netstat -tulnp | grep -i "plc" Secure SSH access (critical for OT environments) sudo nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config Set: PermitRootLogin no, PasswordAuthentication no
2. Simulating PLCs with Docker (For Testing)
If you’re experimenting with virtual PLCs, Docker can help isolate environments:
Pull a PLC simulator image (example) docker pull otee/virtual-plc Run in detached mode docker run -d --name virtual_plc -p 502:502 otee/virtual-plc Check logs docker logs virtual_plc
3. Modbus TCP Security (Common in OT)
Virtual PLCs often use Modbus TCP, which is unsecured by default. Use these commands to test and secure it:
Scan for open Modbus ports (502) nmap -p 502 --script modbus-discover <target_IP> Secure with a firewall rule (UFW) sudo ufw allow from <trusted_IP> to any port 502 proto tcp
4. Windows-Based PLC Security
If running on Windows, enforce security policies:
Disable unnecessary services Stop-Service -Name "ModbusTCP" -Force Set-Service -Name "ModbusTCP" -StartupType Disabled Enable logging for PLC-related events wevtutil sl "Microsoft-Windows-PLC/Debug" /enabled:true
What Undercode Say:
Virtual PLCs are revolutionizing industrial automation but require strict security measures. Always:
– Isolate OT networks from IT networks.
– Use VPNs for remote access.
– Monitor logs for unauthorized Modbus/PLC traffic.
– Update firmware regularly to patch vulnerabilities.
For hands-on practice, explore OTee’s virtual PLC tools and test them in a sandboxed environment before deployment.
Expected Output:
A secure, functional virtual PLC setup with proper network segmentation, logging, and access controls.
Relevant URLs:
- OTee Official Site (if available)
- Modbus Security Best Practices
References:
Reported By: Singhrajvir Virtualplcs – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
