How can human factors contribute to cybersecurity risks in an IACS environment?

Human factors significantly contribute to cybersecurity risks in an Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS) environment, primarily through errors and a lack of training. Employees are often the first line of defense against cyber threats, and their understanding of security protocols is crucial. When personnel are not adequately trained in security practices, they are more prone to making mistakes, such as misconfiguring systems, bypassing security measures, or falling victim to phishing attacks. Additionally, human errors can lead to unintentional disclosures of sensitive information or inadequate responses to security incidents.

A robust training program can help mitigate these risks by ensuring that employees are aware of security policies, understand the significance of their roles in maintaining security, and are familiar with how to recognize and respond to potential threats effectively. Improving this human factor can greatly reduce the likelihood of breaches caused by negligence or unintentional actions within the IACS environment.