SecuWeb | Securing operational technology in a hyperconnected world

Leveraging advanced technologies to build safer and more resilient digital infrastructures

The SecuWeb project aims to bolster data security across companies and organisations in Flanders, Wallonia and France. It explores how cutting-edge technologies, including blockchain, Solid (a decentralised data privacy platform), quantum internet, 5G, AI and IoT, can be applied to strengthen secure data usage. Through a series of demonstrators and use cases, the project evaluates how these technologies can be implemented in real-world settings. The focus is on sectors such as e-health, Industry 4.0, mobility and food, which are of strategic importance to the regional economies.

Context 

Digital transformation plays a vital role in improving efficiency, productivity and agility in manufacturing. Yet, as operational technology (OT) devices become increasingly connected, they also become more vulnerable to cyberattacks. This risk is even more pronounced for older, legacy devices often found in industrial networks.

Securing access to these OT devices is crucial, not only to safeguard data and ensure business continuity but also to meet the requirements of upcoming regulations such as NIS2. Manufacturers will soon be legally obliged to implement security measures that ensure safe and compliant digital operations.

Objective & results

Within the SecuWeb project, Sirris is developing and validating new models and procedures for secure identification and access control in industrial environments. The focus lies on enabling safe, traceable, and regulation-ready access for users working with OT systems. Specific objectives include:

1. Developing a robust security model for user identification and access control (e.g., for machine operators) in OT environments.
2. Enabling secure, trustworthy traceability with immutable logging of user interactions.
3. Supporting auditing and compliance with current and future cybersecurity regulations.
4. Facilitating offline authentication, allowing secure access even when devices are not connected to IT or OT networks.

Approach

To achieve these goals, the project will investigate:

1. Blockchain technology, to manage digital identities and ensure secure, tamper-proof logging of access and actions.
2. Solid, a decentralised solution for managing user consent and privacy.

Target group

The research and solutions developed in SecuWeb are particularly relevant for:

1. Operational technology (OT) environments
2. Critical infrastructure sectors

Funding 

The total SecuWeb project budget amounts to €3.450.630,49, 60% of which is funded by the France-Wallonia-Flanders Interreg programme, the cross-border cooperation programme with the financial support of the European Regional Development Fund.

External link

LinkedIn page of the project