Abstract :
Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are the backbone of chemical industry operations, managing critical processes such as production control, chemical reactions, temperature regulation, and safety mechanisms. As these systems evolve and integrate with modern IT infrastructures, they become increasingly exposed to a wide range of cyber security risks. The growing convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) has introduced new vulnerabilities, making ICS in chemical industries a high-value target for cybercriminals, state-sponsored attackers, and insider threats. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the most common cyberattacks targeting ICS within chemical plants, including ransom ware attacks, phishing campaigns, denial-ofservice (DoS) incidents, malware infections, and advanced persistent threats (APTs). It also explores the role of legacy systems, insecure communication protocols, and lack of real-time monitoring as factors contributing to these vulnerabilities. The unique characteristics of ICS—such as real-time process control, high availability requirements, and safety-critical operations—make traditional IT security solutions insufficient in these environments. To address these challenges, the paper presents a framework for improving ICS-specific incident response plans. Key focus areas include early threat detection, rapid containment, safe system recovery, cross-functional coordination, and continuous training of personnel. The importance of aligning security measures with industrial safety protocols is also emphasized to avoid operational disruptions. Furthermore, the research highlights emerging threats that the chemical industry must prepare for, such as AI-powered cyber attacks, supply chain compromises, vulnerabilities in thirdparty software and hardware, and threats targeting Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) devices. By understanding both current and evolving threat landscapes, chemical industry stakeholders can enhance their cyber security resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and ensure safe, uninterrupted operations. This study aims to provide a comprehensive guide for security professionals, engineers, and decision-makers in the chemical sector, helping them develop proactive and adaptive security strategies for the protection of ICS environments.
Keyword :
CyberSecurity, Intrusion Detection System, human-machine interface