What should be done with unnecessary physical input/output ports according to CIP-007 R1.2?

The focus of CIP-007 R1.2 is on ensuring the security of critical cyber assets by requiring that unnecessary physical input/output ports be safeguarded against unauthorized use. The intention behind this requirement is to minimize the attack surface and potential vulnerabilities within a facility’s critical systems.

By protecting against their use, organizations are taking proactive measures to prevent unauthorized access or the possibility of tampering. This could involve measures such as disabling the ports, using physical locking mechanisms, or monitoring access to ensure that only authorized personnel can interact with these ports. This approach is essential in maintaining the integrity of the critical infrastructure and preventing malicious activities that could arise from unregulated access.

Leaving the ports accessible, enabling them for troubleshooting, or deactivating them may not fully address the need to prevent unauthorized use. Simply deactivating or leaving them open could still present risks, as unauthorized access could still be attempted if they are not adequately monitored or controlled. Protecting against their use holistically addresses the need for careful management of these ports within the context of critical infrastructure protection.