Advancing Computer Security for Radiation Detection Systems through IAEA Coordinated Research Project

This work presents the results of the on-going International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Coordinated Research Project (CRP) J02017 entitled Enhancing Computer Security for Radiation Detection Systems. Radiation detection systems are comprised of a large number of fixed and mobile radiation detectors used for safety and security purposes for nuclear power energy production, nuclear fuel cycle activities, nuclear research reactor operation, medical applications, transportation of nuclear material, environmental monitoring, border control and major public events (among others). The signals generated by radiation detection and physical protection systems produce alarms (and information) that are transmitted and monitored locally or remotely and additional alarm monitoring centers. The transmission of this information across a diverse range of communication channels increases the effectiveness of radiation monitoring and detection systems, and the timely responses to alarm conditions. During signal generation and transmission, processing or storage of information, there is the possibility of compromise and manipulation of data, requiring computer security measures to protect and preserve the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the information being transmitted, assessed, and stored. The research also includes the physical protection systems that protect other radioactive material from theft or sabotage. The objective of the IAEA CRP on Enhancing Computer Security for Radiation Detection Systems is to develop methodologies and techniques to improve computer security of radiation detection equipment, physical protection systems, associated computer-based systems, data communications protocols and the network infrastructure that supports the use of these systems. This panel will discuss the ongoing IAEA CRP research addressing computer security issues related to radiation detection equipment, the need of cybersecurity capacity in specific nuclear security domains; the specific challenges involved with researching cybersecurity for nuclear security; and it will summarize key projects within the IAEA CRP J02017 and their potential benefits to capacity building efforts in Member States with mature nuclear security programs and newcomer countries.