The MITRE Corporation has introduced EMB3D, a new threat-modeling framework designed for embedded devices crucial in critical infrastructure settings. This framework offers a comprehensive understanding of cyber threats specific to embedded devices and the necessary security measures to counter them. Developed in collaboration with industry experts, including Niyo ‘Little Thunder’ Pearson and Red Balloon Security, EMB3D aims to evolve continuously, much like the ATT&CK framework, adapting to emerging threats and vulnerabilities over time.
EMB3D’s draft version was initially released in December 2023, and now, its official availability marks a significant milestone in bolstering cybersecurity for embedded devices. By providing device manufacturers with insights into the evolving threat landscape early in the design phase, EMB3D facilitates the creation of inherently secure devices, reducing the need for post-development security enhancements and minimizing security costs. This proactive approach aligns with the industry’s shift towards secure-by-design principles, ensuring that products are released with fewer exploitable flaws and default secure configurations.
The framework’s focus on embedding security mechanisms into device design aims to mitigate threats targeting embedded devices, particularly in critical sectors such as industrial environments, where the consequences of cyberattacks can be severe. Nozomi Networks’ research underscores the increasing targeting of industrial environments by threat actors, highlighting the urgency of implementing robust cybersecurity measures. Through EMB3D, device vendors gain access to a curated repository of cyber threats mapped to specific device properties, empowering them to develop tailored threat models and implement effective mitigations.
EMB3D not only enhances device security but also contributes to building a more resilient critical infrastructure ecosystem. By addressing threats observed in real-world environments and providing targeted mitigations, this framework equips organizations with the tools needed to safeguard embedded devices against cyber threats effectively. As threats continue to evolve, EMB3D’s adaptive nature ensures that device manufacturers stay ahead of emerging risks, fostering a more secure and resilient infrastructure landscape.
