ChemITC
Information sharing is a fundamental component of a successful security program. With the high level of automation among chemical sector information technology (IT) and manufacturing systems, chemical companies can derive much value from accessing and sharing appropriate information regarding physical and cyber security threats. An important aspect of the Cyber Security Program is its work to facilitate appropriate information sharing at a strategic, tactical and operational level within the chemical sector as well as with the federal government and other critical infrastructure industries.
The Chemical Sector Cyber Security Program has been recognized as an effective channel for sharing cyber security information within our sector. The Program hosts two networking events each year for IT and manufacturing system security professionals to share experiences and discuss topics relating to cyber security trends, issues and needs. Recognizing that the chemical sector operates around the globe, the Cyber Security Program's European Networking and Implementation Team facilitates networking and information sharing among representatives from ChemITC member companies that operate in Europe. It also coordinates with Verband Der Chemischen Industrie (VCI), a German chemical industry trade association, to help facilitate information sharing with European-based chemical companies.
An integral part of the Cyber Security Program's information sharing strategy involves strengthening its interactions with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). In 2007, the Cyber Security Program explored methods to share information with and receive information from DHS. In the year to come, the Cyber Security Program will leverage the tools identified so that together we can work to achieve shared cyber security goals.
With the chemical industry's strong interdependency with many other critical infrastructure industries, significant benefits can also be gained from cross-sector information sharing. Through the DHS-sponsored Cross Sector Cyber Security Working Group, the Cyber Security Program works with other critical infrastructure sectors to coordinate the sharing of critical cyber security information.
The Program encourages chemical companies to take advantage of the wide variety of information sharing capabilities currently in place, some of which are listed below.
- United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) – Provides companies with access to valuable educational resources, security information and security alerts.
- Homeland Security Information Network (HSIN) – Allows DHS to immediately communicate threat information to all 50 states, five territories, Washington D.C. and other urban areas.
- Business Roundtable CEO Com Link – Links Business Roundtable CEOs with the federal government to coordinate communication and response in times of crisis.
- Government Emergency Telecommunications Service (GETS) – Provides a White House directed emergency phone service and priority processing in a crisis situation.
Other Cyber Security Program Strategic Elements: