Global automation specialist Siemens has opened a “Cyber Security Operation Center” for the protection of industrial facilities. It has joint locations in Lisbon, Portugal and Munich, Germany, as well as Milford, OH. At these sites, Siemens industrial security specialists will monitor industrial facilities around the world for cyber threats, warn companies of security incidents and coordinate proactive countermeasures. “The increased networking of industrial infrastructures calls for appropriate protective action for the automation environment,” the company says. “This is where Siemens Plant Security Services enter the picture.” Services offered at the center include security assessments, the installation of protective measures such as firewalls and virus protection, and the continuous surveillance of plants.

If an increased risk is detected, a Siemens expert will give the customer an early warning, issue recommendations for proactive countermeasures and coordinate their implementation. Countermeasures are based on the severity of an incident and the likely impact it would have on a customer’s business.