Cybersecurity for Industry 4.0 in the current literature: A reference framework

The paper proposes to analyse the way in which the existing state of art deals with the cybersecurity issues in Industry 4.0 contexts, with a focus on the investigation of the main elements associated with cybersecurity theme within those industrial contexts where physical systems are connected each other via the Internet.

Abstract

The cybersecurity issues represent a complex challenge for all companies committing to Industry 4.0 paradigm. On the other hand, the characterization of cybersecurity concept within Industry 4.0 contexts proved to be an emerging and relevant topic in the recent literature. The paper proposes to analyse, through a systematic literature review approach, the way in which the existing state of art deals with the cybersecurity issues in Industry 4.0 contexts. In particular, the focus will be on the investigation of the main elements associated with cybersecurity theme (i.e. asset involved into cyber-attacks, system vulnerabilities, cyber threats, risks and countermeasures) within those industrial contexts where physical systems (machines, shop floors, plants) are connected each other via the Internet. Four areas of analysis are defined: definitions of cybersecurity and Industry 4.0 concepts, the industrial focus of the analysed studies, the cybersecurity characterization and the management attempts of cybersecurity issues. Through the literature review analysis, a framework of the main features characterizing each area is discussed, providing interesting evidences for future research and applications.