FAQ
Product Security
What is product security?
Product security refers to the practices and measures taken to protect connected products, such as vehicles, medical devices, and industrial equipment, from unauthorized access, attack, or cyber damage. It encompasses the security of the product from its initial design through its development, deployment, maintenance, and disposal.Learn More
What is ProdSec?
ProdSec is an abbreviation for Product Security. It's a specialized area within cybersecurity focused on ensuring the security and integrity of a specific product, such as a software application or hardware device.
What is product security in cyber security?
In the context of cybersecurity, product security involves implementing security measures and protocols within the product to safeguard against cyber threats, prevent data breaches, and ensure the product's integrity and reliability.
Why is product security important?
Product security is crucial to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and attacks that can lead to significant financial losses, damage to reputation, and harm to users. It is essential for maintaining customer trust and complying with regulatory requirements.
What is the difference between product security and application security?
While product security is a broad term that covers the security aspects of a product with embedded software-driven systems while application security specifically refers to protecting software applications from threats and vulnerabilities during development and post-deployment.
Is DevSecOps the same as product security?
No, DevSecOps is a methodology that integrates security practices within the DevOps process. It focuses on incorporating security at every stage of software development. Product security is a broader concept that includes DevSecOps as a part of its overall strategy.
How do you ensure product security?
Ensuring product security involves:
Conducting internal audits and vulnerability assessments.
Managing vulnerabilities via SBOMs, VEX, and other processes.
Regularly updating and patching the product.
Ensuring compliance with relevant security standards and regulations.
What is secure product development?
Secure product development is a process that involves integrating security considerations and practices into the product development lifecycle. It aims to identify and mitigate security risks early in the development process.
What is PLM in cyber security?
PLM stands for Product Lifecycle Management. In cybersecurity, it refers to managing the security of a product throughout its entire lifecycle, from design and development to deployment, maintenance, and eventual decommissioning.
Who is responsible for product security?
Responsibility for product security typically lies with a dedicated security team, which may include roles such as Chief Product Security Officer (CPSO), security engineers, analysts, and a product security manager. However, all members of a product development team have a role in ensuring security.
What does a product security manager do?
A product security manager oversees the implementation of security measures in a product. They coordinate security efforts across teams, develop security strategies, ensure compliance with security standards, and manage responses to security incidents.
What are the tasks associated with product security?
Tasks include conducting risk assessments, developing security protocols, implementing and enforcing security policies, monitoring for security breaches, and coordinating response strategies to security incidents.
What is SBOM used for?
An SBOM is a comprehensive inventory of all components in a software product. It's used for vulnerability management, information sharing, license compliance, and supply chain transparency as well as product security activities.
What is the difference between SCA and SBOM?
Software Composition Analysis (SCA) tools are used to analyze open-source components within a software project, whereas an SBOM is a detailed list of all software components, both open source and proprietary.
What is the difference between OSS and SBOM?
Open Source Software (OSS) refers to software with source code that can be inspected, modified, and enhanced by anyone, while an SBOM is a list that may include OSS components
What is the difference between a SBOM and a HBOM?
An SBOM lists software components, whereas a Hardware Bill of Materials (HBOM) lists physical hardware components in a device.
What are the common SBOM formats?
Common formats include SPDX (Software Package Data Exchange) and CycloneDX. These standards ensure consistency and interoperability in SBOM documentation.
What is SBOM management?
This involves creating, maintaining, and utilizing SBOMs effectively over time and throughout all stages to manage software components and address security and compliance issues.
Is an SBOM mandatory?
The requirement for an SBOM varies by industry and regulatory environment. In some sectors, like healthcare and critical infrastructure, it's increasingly becoming a regulatory requirement.
Does SBOM include vulnerabilities?
An SBOM itself doesn't include vulnerabilities but helps in identifying them by listing all software components, which can then be cross-referenced with vulnerability databases.
What are the requirements for a SBOM?
SBOM requirements vary based on their use, the state of the device, and most of all the regulations that it falls under. According to CISA, there should be six distinct SBOMs that represent various stages of the product lifecycle. https://cybellum.com/blog/6-sboms-breaking-down-cisas-new-sbom-minimums/
What is the NTIA Executive Order?
This refers to the U.S. government's initiative to improve the nation's cybersecurity, which includes enhancing software supply chain security, potentially involving SBOM requirements.
What is SBOM compliance?
SBOM compliance refers to creating, cataloging, and maintaining SBOMs in a way that allows companies to meet regulatory compliance.
What is vex vulnerability exploitability exchange?
VEX is a way of documenting and sharing vulnerability information as well as vulnerability management methods that have been used to keep the product secure.
What is a VEX vulnerability?
This refers to vulnerabilities in a product’s components where the exploitability status is shared through VEX documentation.
What are the minimum elements of VEX?
Minimum requirements include the identifier of the vulnerability, the product it affects, and the exploitability status within that product.
What is the difference between ISO 21434 and ISO 26262?
ISO 21434 focuses on automotive cybersecurity specifically, whereas ISO 26262 is concerned with functional safety in automotive systems.
Cyber Digital Twins™
What is a Cyber Digital Twin™?
A Cyber Digital Twins™ is a virtual representation of a physical system, used for simulation and analysis purposes. It allows for testing and optimization in a virtual environment, which can enhance security by identifying potential vulnerabilities without impacting the actual system which may be in development or in the field.
Who needs a Cyber Digital Twin™?
Industries that benefit from digital twins include manufacturing, automotive, healthcare, and energy sectors. Companies in these sectors use digital twins for simulation, predictive maintenance, and improving product design and operational efficiency.
How do Cyber Digital Twins™ work?
Cyber Digital Twins™ work by using sensors and data analytics to create a virtual model of a physical object or system. This model is continuously updated with real-time data, allowing for simulations, analysis, and optimization based on current conditions.
Automotive Product Security
Why is automotive cyber security important?
Automotive cybersecurity is crucial due to the increasing connectivity of vehicles, which makes them vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Such attacks can compromise vehicle safety, personal data security, and even enable unauthorized control over vehicle functions.https://cybellum.com/automotive/
How can vehicles be secured against cyber attacks?
Securing vehicles involves:
- Implementing strong product security measures
- SBOM Management
- Implementing a Cybersecurity Management system in line with UNECE WP.29 R155
- Regularly updating software and firmware
- Conducting regular security assessments
- Threat modeling or TARA
What are the examples of cyber attacks on autonomous vehicles?
Examples include hacking into vehicle communication systems, GPS spoofing, taking control over vehicle operations, and accessing sensitive data through connected devices.
How can machine learning enhance cybersecurity for autonomous cars?
Machine learning can enhance cybersecurity by enabling advanced threat detection and response capabilities, predicting and mitigating potential attacks, and continuously learning from new threats to improve security measures.
What is an automotive security system?
An automotive security system refers to the integrated technologies and practices designed to protect connected and autonomous vehicles from cyber threats. Modern Product Security practitioners address this with the Product Security Platform where a vehicle and all of it's software component vulnerabilities can be centrally managed in line with R155 CSMS.
How vulnerable are automakers to cyber attacks?
Automakers are increasingly vulnerable due to the growing connectivity and complexity of automotive systems, reliance on third-party software, and the proliferation of connected services in vehicles. That is why the R155's CSMS aligns the ecosystem in proper security practices.
What is CSMS in automotive?
CSMS stands for Cybersecurity Management System. In the automotive industry, it refers to the structured approach automakers use to manage and mitigate cybersecurity risks across the lifecycle of a vehicle.
What is the difference between CSMS and ISMS?
CSMS is specific to automotive cybersecurity management, focusing on vehicle-specific risks and regulations. ISMS (Information Security Management System) is a broader framework for managing an organization’s information security.
What is a CSMS audit?
A CSMS audit involves evaluating an automotive company's cybersecurity management system to ensure it meets industry standards, regulations, and effectively manages and mitigates cybersecurity risks.
What is the difference between a software defined vehicle and a traditional vehicle?
A software-defined vehicle relies heavily on software for its operations and features, offering high levels of connectivity and upgradability. Traditional vehicles have more limited software integration and connectivity.
What is the wp29 CSMS regulation?
WP.29 R155 requires an automotive cybersecurity management system that allows organizations to identify, track, and manage vulnerabilities throughout the full vehicle lifecycle.
What is the difference between R155 and R156?
R155 involves cybersecurity for road vehicles, while R156 deals with software update processes for road vehicles, both under the WP.29 regulation.
Is ISO 21434 mandatory?
Adoption of ISO/SAE 21434 varies by region and manufacturer, but it's increasingly recognized as a key standard for automotive cybersecurity.
What is the difference between ISO 21434 and ISO 26262?
J3061 is SAE's recommended practice for communication between communication points within a commercial vehicle and the automotive cybersecurity process that must acompny them, whereas ISO 21434 is an international standard focusing on similar aspects but with broader international recognition and applicability.
What is the difference between ISO 21434 and R155?
ISO 21434: This is an international standard titled "Road vehicles — Cybersecurity engineering." It provides a comprehensive framework for ensuring cybersecurity in the development and production of automotive systems. ISO 21434 is broad in its scope, covering various aspects of cybersecurity management, including risk assessment, incident response, and the continuous management of cybersecurity throughout the vehicle lifecycle.
R155: R155 is a regulation under the WP.29 framework, established by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). It specifically addresses cybersecurity and cyber security management systems for road vehicles. R155 is more regulatory in nature and is legally binding for countries that adopt it. It requires manufacturers to establish a certified Cybersecurity Management System (CSMS), conduct risk assessments, define security measures, and ensure continuous monitoring and reporting.
Key Differences:
Scope: ISO 21434 is a global standard offering guidelines for automotive cybersecurity, while R155 is a regulatory requirement under the UNECE, enforceable in member countries.
Compliance: Compliance with ISO 21434 is voluntary and part of best practice, whereas R155 compliance is legally required for vehicle type approval in countries that have adopted this regulation.
Focus: ISO 21434 covers a broad range of cybersecurity aspects in automotive engineering, while R155 is more focused on the establishment and maintenance of a CSMS.
What is the difference between ISO 21434 and J3061?
"ISO 21434 vs. J3061
ISO 21434 is a comprehensive international standard for cybersecurity in automotive systems, offering guidelines across the entire lifecycle of the vehicle and its components.
According to the SAE website, ""J3061 is a recommended practice provides guidance on vehicle Cybersecurity and was created based off of, and expanded on from, existing practices which are being implemented or reported in industry, government and conference papers. The best practices are intended to be flexible, pragmatic, and adaptable in their further application to the vehicle industry as well as to other cyber-physical vehicle systems (e.g., commercial and military vehicles, trucks, busses). ""
Key Differences:
Formality and Scope: ISO 21434 is a formal international standard, while J3061 is a recommended practice with guidelines.
International Recognition: ISO 21434 has broader international recognition and is often considered as the benchmark for automotive cybersecurity, whereas J3061 serves as an influential guidebook and foundational document in the field."
Medical Device Product Security
Why is medical device security important?
Medical device security is vital to protect patient health information, ensure the safe functioning of the devices, and prevent unauthorized access that could compromise patient safety.
What is a regulatory strategy for medical devices?
The regulatory strategy for medical devices involves complying with standards and regulations regarding their safety, efficacy, and security. This includes meeting the requirements of organizations like the FDA and adhering to cybersecurity standards.
What are the best practices for medical device security?
Medical device cybersecurity is defined by a handful of organizations, such as the FDA, IMDRF, and others. The FDA's latest Premarket Authorization Guidelines require:
- Proper SBOM Management
- Frequent vulnerability discovery and management processes
- Threat modeling, and more
What is an example of a medical device being hacked?
An example includes the hacking of insulin pumps to alter dosages, potentially endangering patients' lives.
What are the highest risk medical devices?
Devices with high risks include those connected to networks (like infusion pumps, pacemakers), devices with wireless communication capabilities, and those storing sensitive patient data.
What is the biggest issue with implementing IoMT?
The biggest issue with implementing the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is ensuring robust cybersecurity to protect against the increased risk of data breaches and cyber-attacks associated with connected devices.
What are the security threats of medical devices?
Threats include unauthorized access, data breaches, malware infections, and the potential for remote manipulation of device functionality.
What is medical device cybersecurity?
Medical device cybersecurity refers to the practices and technologies used to protect medical devices from cyber threats, ensuring their safe and secure operation.
What is risk assessment for medical devices?
Risk assessment involves evaluating potential vulnerabilities in a medical device, assessing the likelihood and impact of various threats within both facility and patient home environments, and determining appropriate mitigation strategies.
Why is cyber security important in the manufacturing industry?
As manufacturing equipment becomes connected, cybersecurity is crucial in the manufacturing industry to protect intellectual property, ensure the continuity of operations, safeguard sensitive data, and maintain the integrity of automated systems.
What is the NIST cybersecurity framework for medical devices?
NIST Framework for Medical Devices: This framework provides guidelines for managing cybersecurity risks in medical devices, emphasizing the importance of securing devices throughout their lifecycle. The FDA however has final authority on these matters.
What is the biggest threat to the security of healthcare data within an organization?
Threats can include external factors, such as develoment vulnerabilities, human error in partaking in phishing, or an unsecure network that has not been considered by system developers. That's why the FDA demands a safe product development framework (SPDF).
What is the role of the FDA in medical device cybersecurity?
The FDA provides guidance and regulatory oversight to ensure that medical devices are secure from cybersecurity threats and safe for patient use.
What is the FDA guidance 524B?
FDA Guidance 524B defines what is and what is not considered a connected medical device.
Industrial Product Security
What is industrial cybersecurity?
Industrial cybersecurity refers to the protection of industrial systems, such as SCADA systems, industrial control systems, and manufacturing equipment, from cyber threats.
Why do smart factories need to prioritize cybersecurity?
Smart factories use advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and robotics. Each of them are connected to a network, making these prised products vulnerable targets. Prioritizing cybersecurity in these environments is necessary to protect against data breaches, operational disruptions, and espionage.
Why have industrial control systems become targets for cybercriminals?
Industrial control systems have become prime targets due to their critical role in national infrastructure and the potential for high-impact disruptions. These systems often use legacy technologies that are more vulnerable to modern cyber threats.
Why is cybersecurity important in supply chain?
Cybersecurity is crucial in supply chain management to protect against data breaches, prevent interruptions in logistics, and safeguard sensitive information across the supply chain network. Teams can also identify threats before they are entered in the greater system, stopping the cycle in its tracks.
What are the risks of cyber security in supply chain management?
Key risks include malware attacks, data theft, and the compromise of supplier systems, which can impact the integrity and availability of products and services and create harm for those relying on mission-critical devices.
Why are supply chain attacks increasing?
The rise in these attacks is attributed to the increased interconnectedness of supply chains, greater reliance on third-party vendors, and the high value of the data and processes within supply chains.
