I’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects a cyber attack can have on a business. From stolen customer data to disrupted operations, the consequences can be devastating. That’s why it’s critical for companies to have strong security measures in place, especially when it comes to embedded systems.

Embedded systems may sound like a foreign concept to the average person, but they’re all around us. These systems are used in everything from car engines to medical devices to home appliances. And unfortunately, they’re often vulnerable to cyber attacks.

In this article, I’ll be uncovering the world of embedded systems and their role in cyber security. I’ll share some real-world examples of attacks on embedded systems and the impact they had. But don’t worry, I’ll also be discussing steps companies can take to protect themselves and their customers. So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!

What are examples of embedded systems in cyber security?

Definition of Embedded Systems in Cyber Security

An embedded system refers to a combination of hardware and software components that are designed to perform a specific function. These systems are often integrated into larger systems and have limited computing resources. Despite the limited resources, embedded systems play a crucial role in many applications, including cyber security. In the context of cyber security, embedded systems are used to manage and protect critical infrastructure systems, such as power grids, transportation systems, and communication networks.

Flash Drives as Embedded Systems Attack Vectors

A flash drive is a type of external storage device that is used to transfer data between computing systems. However, flash drives can also be used as attack vectors in the context of cyber security. Attackers can insert a malicious flash drive into a system to gain access to sensitive information, install malware or hijack a system. Some key points to consider about flash drive attack vectors are:

Pros:

• Easy to distribute and hide.
• Cheap and can be purchased in bulk.
• No trace evidence once removed.

Cons:

• Can easily be detected by anti-virus software.
• Requires physical access to the system.
• Less effective against systems that are not configured to boot from external storage devices.

Internet Networks as Embedded Systems Attack Vectors

Internet networks are used to transmit data between computing systems and are essential for many applications. However, they can also be vulnerable to attack through embedded systems. Internet networks can be used to distribute malware and to launch attacks against specific targets. Some key points to consider about internet network attack vectors are:

Pros:

• Can be launched remotely from anywhere in the world.
• Can be used to target a broad range of systems.
• Can be difficult to detect and trace.

Cons:

• Requires knowledge of the target system’s vulnerabilities.
• May be ineffective against systems with strong security measures in place, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
• Can be traced back to the attacker, leading to legal and other consequences.

Network Protocols as Embedded Systems Attack Vectors

Network protocols are used to define the rules and procedures that govern the communication between computing systems. However, attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in network protocols to launch attacks against embedded systems. Protocol-based attacks are a common technique used in cyber security, and can be difficult to detect and prevent. Some key points to consider about network protocol attack vectors are:

Pros:

• Can take advantage of well-known vulnerabilities in widely-used protocols, such as the TCP/IP suite.
• Can be used to launch various types of attacks, including denial-of-service and man-in-the-middle attacks.
• Can be difficult to detect and trace, especially if the attacker is skilled and motivated.

Cons:

• Requires in-depth knowledge of network protocols and their vulnerabilities.
• May be ineffective against systems with strong security measures that are designed to detect and prevent protocol-based attacks.
• Can be traced back to the attacker, leading to legal and other consequences.

Disks as Embedded Systems Attack Vectors

Disks are used as a primary or secondary storage for computing systems. However, when disks are used as attack vectors in the context of cyber security, they can be very effective. Attackers can install malicious software on disks and distribute them to potential victims. The victim, unaware of the malware, will install and activate the malware once they use the disk. Some key points to consider about disk attack vectors are:

Pros:

• Can be disguised as legitimate software or documents.
• Easy to distribute and hide.
• Can target a broad range of systems.

Cons:

• Requires physical access to the target system.
• May be less effective against systems with strong security measures in place, such as anti-virus software.
• May be traced back to the attacker, leading to legal and other consequences.

Understanding Surface of Attack in Embedded Systems

The surface of attack refers to the area of exposure in a computing system that can be targeted by an attacker. The larger the surface of attack, the more vulnerable the system is to attack. In the context of embedded systems, the surface of attack can be significantly smaller than in other systems. Attackers must identify and exploit vulnerabilities in the target system’s embedded components in order to gain access to the system. The surface of attack in embedded systems can be reduced through careful design and implementation of the system’s components.

Attack Areas in Embedded Systems: Network Driver, User Application, and File System

The attack areas in embedded systems consist of the network driver, user application, and file system. These areas are particularly vulnerable to attack and are commonly targeted by attackers. The network driver is responsible for managing the communication between the embedded system and the external network. The user application is responsible for managing the user interface, while the file system is responsible for storing and managing data. These areas are the primary targets for attackers, and careful attention must be paid to ensure that they are properly secured. Effective measures to secure these areas include careful system design and implementation, regular security audits, and the use of security tools and protocols.

In conclusion, embedded systems are essential components of many computing systems, and are particularly important in the context of cyber security. Attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in embedded systems to gain access to computing systems and steal or damage data. Organizations must be vigilant in securing their embedded systems to prevent cyber attacks and protect sensitive information. By understanding the potential attack vectors and implementing effective security measures, organizations can reduce the risks associated with embedded system-based cyber attacks.