Client Overview
A major U.S.-based nuclear power plant operator aimed to reinforce the cybersecurity and operational technology (OT) security posture of its facilities. Recognizing the increasing threat of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, we collaborated with the U.S. Department of Energy’s national laboratories to create a digital twin framework dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity controls.
Challenge
With the integration of digital systems in nuclear facilities, the attack surface for potential cyber threats expanded significantly. Traditional cybersecurity measures were not sufficient for the unique challenges posed by OT networks that control safety-critical reactor subsystems. The plant required real-time monitoring, fast incident detection, and proactive mitigation techniques, all without disrupting plant operations.
Solution
Digital Twin–Driven Cybersecurity and OT Security Implementation
The team developed an advanced digital twin of the plant’s critical OT networks and reactor systems. This digital twin served as a living model, bridging the gap between the physical plant and cyber operations.
Key aspects of the implementation included:
- Integration of Real-Time Data Streams: The digital twin continuously collected and analyzed real-time OT and network sensor data to mirror the live state of physical plant equipment and network traffic.
- Attack Surface Analysis and Threat Simulation: The system performed attack scenario modeling to identify vulnerabilities within the OT network and assess the impact of different threat vectors, enabling proactive risk mitigation
- Anomaly Detection and Automated Response: Using artificial intelligence and machine learning, the digital twin could detect abnormal system behaviour or unauthorized activities indicating potential cyber intrusions or operational anomalies
- Zero Trust Security Model Simulation: The digital twin enabled secure testing and validation of cybersecurity controls such as network segmentation, access controls, and encryption (including exploration of quantum encryption for communication security), minimizing the risk during live deployments
- Operator Training and Response Drills: Plant operators used the digital twin to simulate cyberattack scenarios and emergency response procedures, helping them recognize and react promptly to real threats.
Results
- Real-Time Threat Detection and Reduced Incident Response Time: The digital twin enabled swift identification and containment of cyber incidents or OT intrusions before they could impact plant safety or reliability
- Minimized OT and Cyber Risks: Continuous attack surface analysis led to improved OT security architecture, proactively closing potential vulnerabilities
- Operational Continuity and Compliance: Cybersecurity controls could be evaluated in a risk-free virtual environment, ensuring compliance with NRC guidance and industry standards without interrupting plant operations
- Enhanced Operator Awareness: Training for operators on simulated threat scenarios improved overall security culture and preparedness.