Amid all the recent buzz about NIS2 over the past weeks (or even months), one could easily overlook that a new version of the ISO 27019 standard has just been released. This standard specifies security requirements for energy supply companies, builds upon and expands ISO 27002, and is highly relevant for information security certifications.

The ISO 27019 standard outlines precise requirements (controls) for the secure operation of process control systems and explains suitable security measures.

In addition to aligning with the restructured controls introduced in ISO 27002:2022, several energy-specific aspects have been expanded and added. These energy-focused extensions address particular needs within the industry, which we will be listed below: 

Organizational Measures

Identification of risks associated with external business partners
Implementation of security measures for handling customer information

Physical Security

Security measures to protect control centers
Safeguarding technical rooms
Security for remote facilities
Protection of communication links

Technical Measures

Addressing risks from legacy systems
Ensuring the availability of safety-related functions
Security of internal and external communication links in process control systems
Mitigating risks from third-party connections to process control systems
Enforcing minimum-service requirements for process control systems
Emergency communication protocols

New Requirements

Threat 
Intelligence

Collecting and analyzing potential threats to your infrastructure

Configuration 
Management

Ensuring that systems in use are secure, up-to-date, and correctly configured

Data 
Management

Implement measures to ensure the protection of your data from the risks of data loss

Anomaly 
Management

Implement measures to the detection and analysis of anomalies

The international ISO standards define the state of the art required by many laws and offer therefore valuable guidance for developing effective risk management strategies.

Updates by the German BDEW, Austria's E-Wirtschaft, and the Swiss Electricity Association

Additionally, a well-established document has been updated: the "Requirements for Secure Control and Telecommunication Systems" whitepaper, now in its third version, published by German BDEW, Austria’s E-Wirtschaft, and the Swiss Electricity Association. This includes new provisions for OT networks and attack detection system integration (4.1.13) and emphasizes the importance of malware protection, which should be implemented via signature-based or allowlisting solutions (4.3.2).

Even without the full implementation of NIS2 legislation and regulations, the requirements are becoming increasingly specific, particularly regarding attack detection and vulnerability management. It’s a strong reminder to not delay implementing necessary security measures, even before national NIS2 frameworks are fully in place.

Resources

Holger Skurk, OMICRON

Holger Skurk

OT Cybersecurity Product Manager, OMICRON electronics GmbH

Holger focuses on critical infrastructure protection. In his two decades of experience, he has held senior positions in leading cybersecurity consulting firms, and brings deep expertise in securing operational technologies.