Cybersecurity for Oil & Gas
Asgard’s founders know a bit about the energy industry.
At Asgard Cyber Security, our leadership team brings a wealth of experience from the oil and gas industry, ensuring that we understand the unique challenges and needs of this sector.
Pete Waldroop, CEO
With over 30 years in the oil and gas software industry, Pete founded both Quorum Software and W Energy Software before establishing Asgard. His extensive experience provides us with invaluable insights into the industry’s specific cybersecurity requirements.
Michael Hotchkiss, CTO
Michael has over a decade of experience in cybersecurity specifically for the oil and gas sector. He has led major security initiatives at NGL Energy Partners and W Energy Software, making him a vital asset to our team and our clients.
Tracey Radi, VP of Sales
Tracey spent 15 years working closely with oil and gas companies of all sizes while helping to launch and establish W Energy Software. Her deep understanding of the industry helps us tailor our cybersecurity solutions to meet the unique needs of our clients.
The Critical Need for Cybersecurity in the Oil and Gas Industry
The oil and gas industry is a vital component of the global economy, but it also faces unique cybersecurity challenges. As these companies increasingly rely on advanced technologies and interconnected systems for exploration, production, and distribution, the potential for cyber attacks grows. Threats such as ransomware, data breaches, and attacks on SCADA systems can disrupt operations, cause significant financial losses, and even compromise safety. Cybersecurity is essential to protect sensitive data, ensure operational continuity, and maintain the integrity of critical infrastructure. With the stakes so high, a robust cybersecurity strategy tailored to the specific needs of the oil and gas sector is not just an option—it's a necessity.
A Proactive Approach to Cybersecurity
At Asgard, we take a proactive approach to security, starting with a customized penetration test that provides our clients with a comprehensive view of their current security posture. Our team evaluates both the IT and OT sides of the business, with a particular focus on SCADA systems, which can be especially vulnerable to breaches.
Preventative Measures and Incident Response
While we are fully capable of assisting clients after an attack has occurred, our primary goal is to save our clients from the headaches and stress of a security breach by being involved before any incidents happen. At Asgard, we believe that the best defense is a good offense.
Comprehensive Security Solutions
Our well-documented penetration test results allow us to identify security gaps and make specific recommendations to strengthen our clients’ environments. Beyond penetration testing, our ongoing client engagements may include:
- Gap Analysis
- Road Map Planning
- Budget Prioritization
- Tools Assessments
We understand that it can be overwhelming to address all security issues at once. Asgard helps clients develop a methodical and attainable plan that can be presented to investors and Boards of Directors, as cybersecurity continues to become a critical boardroom topic.
1. Pre-test interview with stakeholders
Before we begin our tests, we work with your organization to determine the Rules of Engagement, Scoping (which hosts to target or exclude), points of contact, timelines, milestones, and discuss any network or infrastructure details. This interview is usually limited to the IT department head and/or executives, as a large part of the test results depend on your team's response to our simulated attacks. During this meeting, we will discuss any NDA's or Waivers that may need to be signed.
2. Penetration Test
- Information Gathering
Our penetration testers will use various methods to gain information about your network, hardware, company, applications, and users. This information will be documented and potentially used during other phases of the test. - Enumeration
At this point in the test, Asgard penetration testers will scan your network and determine targets and vulnerabilities. - Penetration
This phase is where Asgard penetration testers will attempt to exploit vulnerabilities found and gain control of your company's resources. This can include exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities in software, cracking passwords, and pivoting from low value targets to high value targets. During these tests, we are careful to ensure business operations are not impacted. - Reporting
After our tests, we will compile an exhaustive report of our findings, along with recommendations to make your environment more secure. At this time, the Asgard penetration tester is made available to your IT team to go over specific details of the report to make certain your team understands the issues, and more importantly, how to resolve them.