Sinopec, a major Chinese state-owned petroleum and petrochemical enterprise, likely employs robust cybersecurity controls to protect its proximity drilling operations, given the critical nature of these activities. Proximity drilling often involves advanced technologies, including automation, IoT (Internet of Things) sensors, and real-time data monitoring, which all require stringent cyber controls to ensure operational security, data protection, and regulatory compliance.

Here are key aspects that Sinopec's cyber controls for proximity drilling might include:

1. Network Security

• Firewall and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Sinopec would use firewalls and IDS to monitor, detect, and prevent unauthorized access to its drilling networks, especially in remote or harsh environments.
• Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): Secured VPNs are likely used for remote access to drilling operations, allowing authorized personnel to monitor and control rigs securely from anywhere.
• Segmentation: Sinopec would segment drilling operations from other IT systems to reduce the attack surface and limit lateral movement in case of a breach.

2. Data Encryption

• Encryption of Data in Transit and at Rest: To protect sensitive drilling data, such as seismic readings and drilling reports, Sinopec would encrypt data both while it's being transmitted over networks and when stored on servers.
• End-to-End Encryption for Sensors: IoT devices, such as proximity sensors and automated systems on rigs, are secured using encryption to ensure data integrity and prevent tampering.

3. Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Protection

• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) Security: Sinopec likely employs SCADA systems to monitor and control drilling operations. These systems are vulnerable to cyberattacks, so strong authentication, patch management, and network monitoring are used to protect them.
• Access Control for OT (Operational Technology) Systems: Sinopec would enforce strict access control mechanisms, limiting who can control proximity drillers and how they interact with the systems, reducing the risk of malicious insider activity.

4. Endpoint Security

• IoT and Sensor Device Protection: Since proximity drillers rely on sensors and connected devices, Sinopec would implement endpoint security solutions, such as anti-malware, patch management, and firmware updates, to secure these devices.
• Mobile Device Management (MDM): Personnel accessing proximity drilling controls through mobile devices would be subject to MDM protocols to prevent unauthorized access and data leaks.

5. Real-time Monitoring and Incident Response

• Security Operations Center (SOC): Sinopec would likely have a SOC to provide 24/7 real-time monitoring of its drilling operations. Anomaly detection tools might be employed to flag any suspicious behavior in the system.
• Incident Response Teams: Dedicated teams are probably in place to respond swiftly to cyber incidents or breaches in proximity drilling operations, minimizing downtime and loss of data.

6. Compliance and Audit Trails

• Regulatory Compliance: Sinopec would ensure compliance with both international and national cybersecurity regulations, such as China's Cybersecurity Law and other global oil industry standards.
• Audit Logs: Detailed logging of all activities within the proximity drilling operations ensures that all actions can be traced, providing accountability in case of a breach or malfunction.

7. Supply Chain Security

• Third-Party Risk Management: Sinopec likely collaborates with multiple vendors for its proximity drilling technologies. The company would ensure these vendors adhere to the same cybersecurity standards, employing controls such as risk assessments, due diligence, and continuous monitoring of third-party systems.

8. Employee Training and Awareness

• Cybersecurity Training: Drilling staff and engineers are likely trained regularly on recognizing cybersecurity threats, such as phishing, social engineering, and how to follow best practices in cybersecurity.
• Access Control and Privilege Management: Sinopec probably enforces role-based access control (RBAC) to limit access to critical systems based on employee roles, reducing insider threats.

In summary, Sinopec’s cyber controls for proximity drilling would be a layered, multifaceted approach involving encryption, network security, endpoint protection, monitoring, and strict access controls, aligned with global cybersecurity standards for critical infrastructure.