A systems-theoretic security model for large scale, complex systems applied to the US air transportation system

Classical risk-based or game-theoretic security models rely on assumptions from reliability theory and rational expectations economics that are not applicable to security threats. Additionally, these models suffer from serious deficiencies when they are applied to software-intensive, socio-technical systems. Recent work by Leveson in the area of system safety engineering has led to the development of a new accident model for system safety that acknowledges the dynamic complexity of accidents. Systems-Theoretic Accident Models and Processes (STAMP) applies principles from control theory to enforce constraints on hazards and thereby prevent accidents. Appreciating the similarities between safety and security while still acknowledging the differences, this thesis extends STAMP to security problems. In particular, it is applied to identify and mitigate the threats that could emerge in critical infrastructures such as the Air Transportation System. Furthermore, recommendations are provided to assist systems engineers and policy makers in securely transitioning to the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NGATS).

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Engineering Systems Division.

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2007

Author dc:creator

• Laracy, Joseph R. (Joseph Raymond)

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Nancy G. Leveson.

• Engineering Systems Division.

Statement dc:rights

• M.I.T. theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/39256

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/39256