New Industrial Control Systems Cyber Security Certification Exam is Now Available

Global Information Assurance Certification Offers the Only Credential Addressing Cyber Security for Industrial Control Systems and Critical Infrastructure

BETHESDA, Md., Dec. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC), a leading provider of cyber security certifications, announced today the release of the new Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP) certification exam. This vendor-neutral credential is the only one of its kind addressing the specific cyber security issues in automation and industrial control systems. For a list of certification objectives and registration information, please visit: http://www.giac.org/info/145227

The GICSP focuses on the foundational knowledge for professionals securing critical industrial infrastructure assets. This credential was developed for engineers, control system support, and security professionals who work in environments addressed by commonly accepted standards related to control system and automation security, including ISA-99/IEC 62443 and NERC CIP. Holders of the GICSP will demonstrate a globally recognized level of competence that defines the architecture, design, management, risk and controls that assure the security of critical infrastructure and is the "bridge" uniting IT, engineering and cyber security professionals to achieve security for automation and control systems from design through retirement.

"The rapidly evolving industrial security landscape makes it crucial that today's manufacturers view professional certification as an important business imperative," said Doug Wylie, Director, Product Security Risk Management, Rockwell Automation. "Rockwell Automation is dedicated to supporting this initiative that will help facilitate the design and management of more secure connected enterprises in the industrial sector. GICSP certified security professionals will be a positive contribution by increasing the competency that is essential to protect critical infrastructure and other vital manufacturing assets."

GIAC and industry leaders established a panel of Subject Matter Experts (SME) who identified the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to develop the certification objectives for the GICSP.  These experts represent organizations responsible for developing, implementing, securing, operating, and managing industrial technology. The GICSP expects adoption on a global basis as a complimentary gateway certification in the cyber security domain for industrial control systems.

GIAC is also pleased to announce that the SANS Institute has developed ICS410 ICS/SCADA Security Essentials, which can prepare professionals for the rigor of the GICSP certification examination. The SANS ICS/SCADA course provides a deep range of cyber security training for critical infrastructure domains and provides hands-on exercises to affirm that professionals obtain a better understanding of the many facets of maintaining a secure computing environment in the critical infrastructure space which ranges from the energy and utility sectors to manufacturing. To learn more about SANS ICS programs visit http://www.sans.org/info/145522.

"Information is powerful when it can be collected, analysed, and acted upon in the appropriate time period. Automation systems are designed for real-time operations and the technology landscape is converging as we connect to devices in an effort to accelerate productivity. The GICSP helps organizations integrate the necessary competencies required to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks with today's connected industrial enterprise and the proliferating world of digital things. Security minded people are the fuel that drives greater security innovation in both technology and practice," says Michael Assante, SANS ICS Director.

About GIAC
Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) is a certification body featuring over 27 hands-on, technical certifications in information security. GIAC has certified over 54,000 IT security professionals since it was founded in 1999. The GIAC program is accredited under the IEC/ISO/ANSI 17024 quality standard for certifying bodies. GIAC is an affiliate of the SANS Institute. (www.GIAC.org)

SOURCE Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC)