PHCG: PLC Honeypoint Communication Generator for Industrial IoT

Abstract

With the rapid development of mobile and wireless technologies, the industrial manufacturing sector has entered the era of automation. The proliferation of mobile devices, sensor networks, and remote monitoring systems enables factory equipment to be more flexibly connected and controlled. However, the trend towards industrial networks also brings new challenges. Industrial control systems (ICSs) and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are more susceptible to hacker attacks and interference. Honeypoints have been developed to protect ICSs from addressing these threats, including potential internal attacks. Honeypoints are active deception systems that mitigate the limitations of conventional defense mechanisms, which successfully entice and neutralize internal enemies. This paper presents the PLC Honeypoint Communication Generator (PHCG), enhancing honeypoint protective capabilities in industrial IoT systems. Using an automated construction process, PHCG provides a convenient and efficient deployment method, ensuring quick and effective functioning. The functionality of a PLC relies on a data generation model trained on PLC response data. This model allows PHCG to imitate genuine PLC responses accurately when given authorized commands. The experimental results illustrate the adaptability of information produced by PHCG in different communication processes, with satisfactory timescales for both model training and data generation.