As vehicles become increasingly connected and software-driven, cybersecurity has become a key concern in automotive development. To address these challenges, ISO/SAE 21434 defines a framework for managing cybersecurity risks throughout the lifecycle of electrical and electronic (E/E) systems.

A central element of the standard is the Threat Analysis and Risk Assessment (TARA) methodology. TARA provides a structured approach to identify potential threat scenarios, assess their associated risks, and derive appropriate cybersecurity goals. By evaluating the potential impact of cybersecurity incidents from the perspective of affected road users and other stakeholders, TARA helps organizations focus their efforts on the most relevant risks.

As a result, TARA forms the foundation for many cybersecurity activities and decisions throughout the development process. It is performed by the viewpoint of an affected road user and consists of the following steps: asset Identification, threat scenario identification, impact rating, attack path analysis, attack feasibility rating, risk determination, risk treatment decision.

Although the TARA methodology is well-defined in ISO/SAE 21434, its practical application can be challenging. A successful TARA requires expertise from multiple disciplines, including cybersecurity, system engineering, software development, hardware development, functional safety, and domain experts who understand the vehicle functions and architecture.

In practice, it is often difficult to

• bring together the relevant experts,
• establish a common understanding of potential threat scenarios,
• assess risks consistently,
• document assumptions in a transparent manner, and
• ensure end-to-end traceability and coordination among the teams involved.

As vehicle systems become increasingly complex and connected, conducting an effective and efficient TARA requires not only methodological knowledge but also strong collaboration and structured facilitation.

As TARA is one of the most challenging and discussion-intensive activities within ISO/SAE 21434, many organizations find it difficult to establish a consistent and efficient approach. Dedicated TARA workshops create value by bringing together cybersecurity, safety, system, and domain experts to develop a shared understanding of relevant risks and suitable mitigation strategies.

Process Fellows supports your organization with an independent perspective, proven facilitation, and practical guidance throughout the TARA process. Our TARA workshop is typically conducted over three days and results in a first TARA draft that is ready for review.

Already have a TARA? We also offer independent TARA reviews to assess the completeness and consistency of your analysis, identify potential gaps, and provide practical recommendations for improvement actions.

The workshop includes:

• Introduction to the TARA methodology
• Provision of practical TARA templates
• Moderation and facilitation of the TARA workshop
• Step-by-step execution of the TARA process with your team
• Workshop result: a TARA draft ready for review

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