With predictions that attackers will weaponize operational technology (OT) environments by 2025, establishing robust OT security is imperative for organizations. When this level of threat comes into play, the success of the combined world of OT and IT rests on secure data transfer and communications through a comprehensive digital security framework.
Breaches within distributed systems can be catastrophic, so implementing a comprehensive digital security framework enables secure data transfer and communication. But how do we achieve optimum OT security? Let’s start by understanding OT Security.
What is OT security?
Operational Technology (OT) includes both hardware and/or software that is responsible for controlling or monitoring assets engaged in various processes worldwide. OT components like Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and IoT come together with IT components like processors and storage to actively participate in actual physical processes.
Why is it important?
The integration of OT and IT introduces new dimensions of risk and potential threats, making OT security a critical focus for CISOs. The stakes are high; breaches within OT environments can lead to severe disruptions, financial losses, and even compromise critical infrastructure. We’ve seen the destructive potential of cyberattacks in cases of Colonial pipeline attack (2012), Dr Reddy’s (2020), and the latest Oil India Limited Attack in 2022. There are dozens of examples of cyber assaults that target critical infrastructure we all rely on – electricity, water, transportation.
Comprehensive OT security prevents severe disruptions to essential services and mitigates threats to public safety. It also enables the continuous operations of industrial control systems that run production processes and revenue-generating activities.
Securing OT safeguards valuable intellectual property and proprietary data related to critical operations. Implementing OT security controls facilitates regulatory compliance and adherence to industry standards that mandate stringent cybersecurity.
Achieving OT Security – a Strategic Imperative
To kickstart your journey towards robust OT security, conducting a comprehensive risk assessment is foundational. Mitigating the impact of rising cyber threats requires the adoption of proactive measures that:
- Identifies potential vulnerabilities and critical assets.
- Prioritizes vulnerabilities based on risk.
- Tracks assets and other interactions with other networks in real-time.
- Establishes control over networks and devices, maintaining organized configurations.
- Implements a wide array of measures for detecting future potential threats.
- Deploys an intelligent and secure remote access solution for enhanced protection.
Armed with this intelligence, you can strategically plan and prioritize security measures based on the specific risks associated with your operational processes. The proactive approach lays the groundwork for a resilient security posture that can adapt to the evolving threat landscape.
Best practices for effective OT Security – 5 Must-Do’s
When it comes to securing your operational technology, you can’t just set it and forget it. Staying on top of OT cybersecurity takes work, but slacking off can lead to major headaches down the road. Here are 5 best practices to make your OT environment hack-proof.
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Identify and Prioritize OT Assets
A comprehensive defense begins with knowing the landscape. Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all OT systems, hardware, and software. Centralized, automated discovery with full visibility into the OT environment helps prioritize assets based on their operational importance. Prioritization allows focused investments in protection, enables incident response policies to secure critical assets first, and ensures a strategic approach to safeguarding the organization’s vital infrastructure.
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Adopt a Zero-Trust Framework
The zero-trust model operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” Continuous authentication and authorization of all users and devices, both internal and external, ensure a proactive security stance. Behavioral and context clues enhance threat identification, limiting lateral movement for attackers and preventing internal agents from exploiting critical infrastructure.
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Control Identity and Access Management
Controlling access to the OT network is paramount. Utilize security tools such as identity and access management and network access control. Adhere to the principle of least privilege, limiting access to only those devices and users essential for their roles. Staying on top of your OT topology lets you spot shady activity faster than you can say “breach.” SIEM solutions and next-gen firewalls can automate threat detection to spot malware, anomalies, and policy violations before things get out of hand.
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Regularly Update and Patch Software
The most basic security protocol and yet most organizations fail to update or patch their software in time. Vulnerabilities in OT systems can be exploited if software is outdated. A robust patch management process ensures timely updates after thorough testing in a controlled environment. This minimizes network downtime and prevents potential disruptions caused by incompatible or faulty patches.
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Bring the power back to CISOs
Traditionally, IT and OT have worked in isolation resulting in a fragmented organizational cybersecurity approach. In 2024, the most important work for CISOs is to bring cybersecurity under one roof – IT, OT, IoT, and IIoT. The CISO’s oversight, resources, and expertise become instrumental in accurately assessing risks, detecting vulnerabilities, and responding to threats effectively.
How iValue can help
As CISOs navigate the intricate cybersecurity landscape, mastering OT security is non-negotiable. Integrating OT and IT brings unprecedented opportunities and exposes organizations to sophisticated cyber threats. By adopting a proactive and strategic approach, CISOs can fortify their defenses, ensuring the resilience and security of critical operational processes.
Our commitment to securing your operations extends beyond this article. To know more about the cybersecurity measures we can help you implement, contact us today.
