Implementing a High-Interaction Hybrid Honeypot For Facility Automation Systems

Abstract

Operational technology includes environments such as industrial control systems, building-automation systems, and transportation systems. With the rising trend of cyberattacks against these systems, operational technology needs better methods to increase security without costly redesigns of existing systems. We developed a high-interaction hybrid honeypot that uses reverse-proxy technology with commercial building automation software and equipment to deceive attackers with real (not simulated) data. Our Web proxy monitors and intercepts malicious requests to manipulate target equipment, and deploys deceptive tactics such as sending fake HTTP acknowledgments and modifying webpages to include misleading information. Our results showed the effectiveness of this method in a controlled environment. This deception technique offers a new low-cost approach to defend building-automation systems in industries and the United States Government, including the Department of Defense, from evolving cyber threats.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 2023
Accession Number
AD1224969

Entities

People

  • Scott D. Colvin

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Cybersecurity.
  • Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy Engineering.
  • Software Engineering

Technology Areas

  • Cyber