Honeywell Cybersecurity Research Reveals The Risk Of USB Threats To Industrials Has Doubled Over 12 Months

Rhea-AI Summary

Honeywell (NYSE: HON) has released the latest Industrial USB Threat Report, highlighting a significant increase in cybersecurity threats targeting operational technology (OT) systems. Over the past year, threats rose from 16% to 28%, with threats capable of causing major disruptions more than doubling from 26% to 59%. USB removable media is a critical attack vector, with 20% of threats leveraging it. Honeywell recommends implementing robust cybersecurity measures, including its Secure Media Exchange technology and the Honeywell Forge Cybersecurity Suite, to mitigate these risks.

Positive

• Introduction of advanced cybersecurity solutions like Secure Media Exchange, enhancing threat detection.
• Strong product recommendations can lead to improved cybersecurity compliance in industrial environments.

Negative

• Significant increase in the number of threats targeting OT systems, potentially increasing operational risks for customers.
• Doubling of major disruption threats may negatively impact client trust and operational stability.

ATLANTA, July 8, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In a report released today by Honeywell (NYSE: HON) based on cybersecurity threat data collected from hundreds of industrial facilities globally, the severity of threats detected to operational technology (OT) systems has risen by significant amounts over a 12-month period.

The findings from the latest Honeywell Industrial USB Threat Report show that the total amount of threats posed by USB removable media to industrial process control networks remains consistently high, with 45% of locations detecting at least one inbound threat. Over the same time period, the number of threats specifically targeting OT systems nearly doubled from 16 to 28%, while the number of threats capable of causing a loss of view or other major disruption to OT systems more than doubled, from 26 to 59%.

The report shows that 1 in 5 of all threats was designed specifically to leverage USB removable media as an attack vector, and more than half the threats were designed to open backdoors, establish persistent remote access or download additional malicious payloads. These findings are indicative of more coordinated attacks, likely attempting to target air-gapped systems used in most industrial control environments and critical infrastructure.

"USB-borne malware continues to be a major risk for industrial operators," said Eric Knapp, director of Cybersecurity Research and engineering fellow, Honeywell Connected Enterprise, Cybersecurity. "What's surprising is that we're seeing a much higher density of significant threats that are more targeted and more dangerous. This isn't a case of accidental exposure to viruses through USB – it's a trend of using removable media as part of more deliberate and coordinated attacks."

The Honeywell Industrial USB Threat Report examines data collected from Honeywell's Secure Media Exchange (SMX) technology, which is designed to scan and control removable media, including USB drives. As the second most prevalent attack vector into industrial control and automation systems, USB devices play an important role in attacks that target OT systems. In recent years, such attacks have included Disttrack, Duqu, Ekans, Flame, Havex, Industroyer, USBCulprit and others.

To reduce the risk of USB-related threats, Honeywell recommends that organizations implement a blend of OT cybersecurity software products and services such as Honeywell's Secure Media Exchange (SMX), the Honeywell Forge Cybersecurity Suite, people training and process changes.

SMX provides operators with unprecedented control and visibility into the more secure use of USB technology with the latest in advanced threat detection capability for critical infrastructure and facilities. The Honeywell Forge Cybersecurity Suite can monitor for vulnerabilities such as open ports or the presence of USB security controls to strengthen endpoint and network security, and it helps ensure better cybersecurity compliance.

For more information on Honeywell products and services that can help reduce cybersecurity risk, visit Honeywell Forge Cybersecurity.

About Honeywell
Honeywell (www.honeywell.com) is a Fortune 100 technology company that delivers industry-specific solutions that include aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings and industry; and performance materials globally. Our technologies help aircraft, buildings, manufacturing plants, supply chains, and workers become more connected to make our world smarter, safer, and more sustainable. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywell.com/newsroom.

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SOURCE Honeywell

FAQ

What does the Honeywell Industrial USB Threat Report reveal about cybersecurity threats in 2020?

The report indicates a significant rise in threats against operational technology systems, with targeted threats growing from 16% to 28%.

What percentage of locations experienced USB-related threats according to Honeywell's report?

The report states that 45% of locations detected at least one inbound threat from USB removable media.

How can organizations mitigate USB-related cybersecurity threats according to Honeywell?

Honeywell recommends using solutions like Secure Media Exchange and the Honeywell Forge Cybersecurity Suite for better threat management.

What is the role of USB removable media in cyber threats as identified by Honeywell?

USB removable media has been identified as an attack vector in 20% of threats, often used to facilitate deeper system access.

What are the implications of the findings in the Honeywell report for industrial operators?

The rising threat levels may necessitate enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect operational technology and maintain trust.