ISA99, also known as the International Society of Automation (ISA). Cybersecurity Standards, is a series of standards and technical reports developed by the ISA to address cybersecurity issues in industrial automation and control systems (IACS). However, there are several myths surrounding ISA99 that need to be dispelled. In this blog post, we will explore some common myths and provide accurate information to help you better understand ISA99.

Myth 1: ISA99 is only for large organizations
One of the most common misconceptions about ISA99 is that it is only applicable to large organizations with extensive industrial automation systems. However, ISA99 is designed to be scalable and can be applied to organizations of all sizes. Whether you have a small manufacturing facility or a large power plant, ISA99 provides guidance and best practices to secure your IACS.

Myth 2: ISA99 is only for the IT department
Another myth surrounding ISA99 is that it is solely the responsibility of the IT department. While it is true that IT plays a crucial role in implementing cybersecurity measures, ISA99 emphasizes the collaboration between IT and operational technology (OT) teams. It recognizes that OT systems require unique security considerations, and both IT and OT need to work together to ensure the safety and security of the industrial automation systems.

Myth 3: Compliance with ISA99 guarantees complete cybersecurity
ISA99 provides a framework for implementing cybersecurity measures in IACS, but it does not guarantee complete cybersecurity. It is important to remember that cybersecurity is an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring, updates, and improvements. Compliance with ISA99 is just the first step towards a robust cybersecurity posture. Organizations must regularly assess their systems, identify vulnerabilities, and take appropriate actions to mitigate risks.

Myth 4: ISA99 is too complex to implement
Some organizations may hesitate to adopt ISA99 because they believe it is too complex to implement. While cybersecurity can be a complex topic, ISA99 offers practical guidance that can be tailored to an organization’s specific needs. It provides a systematic approach to cybersecurity that includes risk assessment, security policy development, network architecture, and incident response planning. By breaking down the process into manageable steps, organizations can gradually implement ISA99 principles and improve their cybersecurity posture over time.

Myth 5: ISA99 is outdated
As technology advances and new cybersecurity threats emerge, it is crucial for standards to evolve as well. ISA99 is continuously updated to address the latest cybersecurity challenges. It incorporates feedback from industry experts, cybersecurity professionals, and regulatory bodies to ensure it remains relevant and effective. By staying up to date with the latest version of ISA99, organizations can benefit from the most current best practices and recommendations.

In conclusion, ISA99 is a valuable resource for organizations looking to enhance the cybersecurity of their industrial automation systems. By dispelling these common myths, we hope to promote a better understanding of ISA99 and encourage organizations to leverage its guidance to protect their critical infrastructure. Remember, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and implementing ISA99 is just the beginning of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.