A new perspective towards the development of robust data-driven intrusion detection for industrial control systems

Abstract

Most of the machine learning-based intrusion detection tools developed for Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are trained on network packet captures, and they rely on monitoring network layer traffic alone for intrusion detection. This approach produces weak intrusion detection systems, as ICS cyber-attacks have a real and significant impact on the process variables. A limited number of researchers consider integrating process measurements. However, in complex systems, process variable changes could result from different combinations of abnormal occurrences. This paper examines recent advances in intrusion detection algorithms, their limitations, challenges and the status of their application in critical infrastructures. We also introduce the discussion on the similarities and conflicts observed in the development of machine learning tools and techniques for fault diagnosis and cybersecurity in the protection of complex systems and the need to establish a clear difference between them. As a case study, we discuss special characteristics in nuclear power control systems and the factors that constraint the direct integration of security algorithms. Moreover, we discuss data reliability issues and present references and direct URL to recent open-source data repositories to aid researchers in developing data-driven ICS intrusion detection systems.

Keywords

• Cybersecurity
• Intrusion detection system
• Nuclear power plant
• Pattern recognition