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Eaton collaborates with CyberArk to deliver fully automated solution securing critical utility grid automation devices and networks against cyber threats

2022-08-05 | Return

● Growing threat of ransomware attack underscores need for utilities to safeguard connected devices and data with certified cybersecure systems
● Collaboration includes CyberArk integration with Eaton's IED Manager Suite (IMS) for password and identity management
● Eaton solution helps utilities simplify secure access and streamline cybersecurity compliance across IT and OT networks

PITTSBURGH … Intelligent power management company Eaton announced a cybersecurity collaboration with global leader in identity security CyberArk to enhance protection of utility transmission and distribution devices and networks. The collaboration leverages Eaton’s grid automation expertise and industry-leading approach to cybersecurity with CyberArk’s Identity Security solutions to help utilities simplify a critical element of cybersecurity compliance for modern grid automation systems.

“Today’s utility infrastructure is more connected than ever before, which provides unprecedented grid flexibility and stability alongside significant cybersecurity risk,” said Eric Lebeau, product line manager for Eaton. “By working with CyberArk, we are uniquely able to help utilities unify cybersecurity monitoring and management of both OT and IT devices – regardless of manufacturer – to secure the grid and streamline industry compliance.”

The ongoing decentralization and digitalization of power makes it essential for utilities to safeguard connected devices and data against the rising threat of cyberattack. By integrating CyberArk’s capabilities into its IED Manager Suite (IMS), Eaton is enabling utilities to automate the complex task of manually verifying, managing and rotating network access passwords for intelligent electronic devices (IEDs) used in grid automation systems. The CyberArk integration within Eaton’s IMS software also allows utilities to retrieve credentials easily and securely for scans and firmware updates.

“Critical infrastructure continues to be vulnerable to cyber attackers seeking to disrupt operations or cause harm,” said Clarence Hinton, chief strategy officer and head of corporate development, CyberArk. “We believe this integration with Eaton will provide joint customers with greater control and protection of those credentials used to access sensitive systems, especially those credentials that have privileged access. We look forward to continuing to expand our collaboration and work together with Eaton to help drive down risk and exposure to cybersecurity threats.”

Eaton's IMS software helps utilities manage configuration settings, passwords and firmware for IEDs from a wide range of manufacturers used in grid automation systems. It reduces maintenance costs through secure remote access and helps comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) critical infrastructure protection (CIP) requirements. To learn more about Eaton’s utility solutions, visit Eaton.com/utility.

Source: https://www.eaton.com