Course Content

Section 1: Understanding the ICS/OT Cyber Threat Landscape

– Overview of modern cyber threats targeting industrial environments.

– Real-world cases of ransomware, phishing, and insider threats in ICS/OT.

– The impact of cyberattacks on industrial safety, production downtime, and business continuity.

Section 2: Core Components and Security Challenges in ICS/OT Environments

– Key differences between IT and OT security and why ICS systems require special protection.

– Common ICS/OT vulnerabilities, including legacy systems, remote access risks, and third-party integrations.

– The importance of network segmentation, asset inventory management, and physical security controls.

Section 3: Cyber Security Best Practices for Manufacturing Environments

This section covers 10 critical cyber security best practices, specifically tailored for employees working in manufacturing and industrial settings:

3.1. Secure Authentication

Strong authentication policies, including multi-factor authentication (MFA) and role-based access controls, to prevent unauthorized access to industrial networks and control systems.

3.2. Identifying and Avoiding Phishing & AI-Driven Scams

How social engineering attacks target industrial employees and vendors, and how to recognize fake emails, deceptive invoices, and AI-generated phishing scams.

3.3. Preventing and Responding to Ransomware Attacks

Understanding the impact of ransomware on industrial processes, preventing infections, and responding to ICS-specific ransomware threats.

3.4. Identifying and Reporting Cyber Security Incidents

The importance of timely reporting of cyber incidents, such as unauthorized system access, data leaks, and operational disruptions.

3.5. Safe Internet and Email Practices

Avoiding malware infections in factory and warehouse settings by recognizing suspicious links, verifying external communications, and restricting personal device usage.

3.6. Preventing Data Mishandling & Unauthorized Access

Secure handling of operational data, customer records, and intellectual property.

3.7. Securing Your Mobile Devices

Protecting mobile devices and industrial tablets used on the factory floor to prevent unauthorized network access and industrial espionage.

3.8. Securing Remote Work Environments

Ensuring secure access for remote engineers, vendors, and technicians, preventing unauthorized entry into ICS networks and SCADA systems.

3.9. Safe Social Media Use

Preventing accidental data leaks or corporate espionage through oversharing industrial operations, contracts, or technology details on social media and messaging apps.

3.10. Safe AI Usage Practices

Understanding how AI-driven automation and predictive maintenance tools interact with ICS/OT systems, ensuring they are secured against data exposure and cyber risks.

Section 4: Regulatory Compliance and Data Protection in ICS/OT

– Overview of ICS/OT security frameworks such as IEC 62443, NIST CSF, and ISO 27001.

– Compliance with regional and international data protection laws in manufacturing environments.

– Best practices for audit readiness, security governance, and vendor risk management.

Section 5: Summary and Results

– Recap of key cyber security and ICS/OT security best practices covered in the course.

– Review of learner progress and final assessment results to measure knowledge retention.

– Reinforcing the importance of continuous cyber security awareness in manufacturing environments.