How to Hack Your Career in OT/ICS Cybersecurity

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Introduction:

Operational Technology (OT) and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) cybersecurity is a critical field focused on protecting infrastructure like power grids, manufacturing plants, and water systems from cyber threats. With increasing digitization, demand for skilled professionals in this niche is surging. This article provides actionable insights and free resources to help you break into or advance in OT/ICS cybersecurity.

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the fundamentals of OT/ICS cybersecurity.
  • Learn how to access free training and newsletters for skill development.
  • Discover steps to build or improve an OT/ICS cybersecurity program.

You Should Know:

1. Free OT/ICS Cybersecurity Newsletter

Resource: Guarding Gears Newsletter

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Visit the registration link.

2. Enter your email and subscribe.

  1. Receive weekly updates on OT/ICS news, podcasts, and expert insights.
    Why It Matters: Staying updated with industry trends is crucial for career growth. This newsletter condenses key information into a digestible format.

2. Essential OT/ICS Security Commands

Command: `nmap -sU -p 161 ` (UDP scan for ICS devices using SNMP)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Install Nmap on Linux/Windows.

  1. Run the command to scan for open SNMP ports (common in OT devices).

3. Analyze results to identify vulnerable devices.

Why It Matters: SNMP is often misconfigured in OT environments, making this a critical check for pentesters.

3. Hardening PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers)

Command: `sudo iptables -A INPUT -p tcp –dport 502 -j DROP` (Block Modbus TCP traffic)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Access your Linux-based firewall.

  1. Run the command to block unauthorized Modbus access.

3. Test connectivity to ensure the rule works.

Why It Matters: Unrestricted Modbus traffic is a common attack vector in ICS networks.

4. Detecting ICS Malware with YARA

Code Snippet:

rule TRITON_Malware {
meta:
description = "Detects TRITON ICS malware"
strings:
$s1 = { 53 48 89 E3 48 89 DF 48 89 C6 }
condition:
any of them
}

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Save the rule to a `.yara` file.

  1. Scan files or memory using yara rule.yar target_file.

3. Investigate matches for potential threats.

Why It Matters: TRITON targets safety systems in OT environments, making early detection vital.

5. Securing SCADA Protocols

Tool: Wireshark (Filter: `scada || modbus || dnp3`)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Capture network traffic in an OT environment.

2. Apply the filter to isolate SCADA protocols.

3. Analyze for unencrypted or anomalous traffic.

Why It Matters: Unencrypted SCADA protocols are a major risk to critical infrastructure.

What Undercode Say:

  • Key Takeaway 1: OT/ICS cybersecurity is a high-growth field with a skills gap—free resources like newsletters and open-source tools can fast-track your expertise.
  • Key Takeaway 2: Hands-on practice with ICS-specific commands and tools (e.g., Nmap, YARA, Wireshark) is essential for real-world readiness.

Analysis: The convergence of IT and OT systems has expanded the attack surface for critical infrastructure. Professionals who master both technical skills (e.g., protocol analysis) and strategic knowledge (e.g., program building) will lead the industry. Mike Holcomb’s free newsletter is a prime example of accessible, high-value learning for aspiring OT defenders.

Prediction:

By 2030, OT/ICS cybersecurity roles will grow by 40% as governments and industries mandate stricter protections. Early adopters of free training and niche skills (e.g., PLC hardening, malware analysis) will dominate this lucrative field.

For more free resources, sign up for the Guarding Gears Newsletter.

IT/Security Reporter URL:

Reported By: Mikeholcomb Want – Hackers Feeds
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