Industroyer2 Breach

Last updated: April 1, 2025

Target Audience

Keywords

Introduction

Overview

Industroyer2 is a specialized industrial control system (ICS) malware designed to disrupt power infrastructure. It was built upon the capabilities of its predecessor, Industroyer, which was previously used in another major power grid attack. Industroyer2 uses the IEC-104 protocol to issue commands to power substations to cause outages. The attack in April 2022 was ultimately thwarted before it could cause significant disruption.

Vulnerability Details

The malware Industroyer malware operates in three phases: infection, network discovery, and attack execution. It first infiltrates the target system, establishes communication with a command and control (C&C) server, and then maps the industrial environment using standard protocols. Once information is gathered, it executes tailored commands to disrupt the power distribution. Industroyer2 has an updated codebase that enhances its ability to exploit the IEC 104 protocol, making it easily adaptable for different industrial environments

Learning Objectives

  • Understand how industroyer2 disrupts power grids
  • Importance of monitoring and response plans
  • Understand cyber threats to infrastructure and the risks they pose

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Module Questions

What was the primary target of the Industroyer2 malware during the 2022 power grid attack?
Which protocol was exploited by Industroyer2 to target industrial systems?
What key characteristics of Industroyer2 made it particularly dangerous to critical infrastructure?
How was the Industroyer2 malware neutralized before it could execute its full attack on April 8, 2022?
What was a major lesson learned from the Industroyer2 attack regarding critical infrastructure protection?