What are examples of operational technology?

Since operational technology encompasses all programmable technologies that interact with their physical environments, the scope of the term is continuously expanding as new innovations emerge. As such, it now comprises a wide range of systems and devices.

The following are some typical examples of operational technology which require protection:

• Programmable logic controllers (PLC)

• Industrial control systems (ICS)

• Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)

• Energy monitoring systems

• Fire control systems

• Building Management Systems (BMS)

• Physical access control mechanisms

What are the risks to OT cybersecurity? compliance?

With operational technologies becoming more intelligent and interconnected, cyber risks have become a more prominent concern for the organizations that utilize them. The following are some key risks to consider in OT cybersecurity:

• Network connectivity: Advancements in OT technology have seen OT systems become increasingly integrated with IT networks, and this exposes them to increased risks with regard to cyber-attacks. If proper measures are not taken to insulate OT technologies, there could be a risk of attacks via Internet-facing systems.

  Legacy systems: Due to the nature of the work they do, OT systems are often designed with longevity and durability as the priority rather than security. This means that legacy OT systems can have outdated security features with known vulnerabilities, making them susceptible to potential attacks.

  Supply chain weaknesses: It is now commonplace for organizations to utilize third-party solutions for the maintenance and management of OT systems, but this comes with risks. Providing third-party vendors with access to critical OT assets could render those assets vulnerable if those vendors do not uphold the same security standards as the client organization.

What are OT cybersecurity best practices?

Organizations need to engage in proactive cybersecurity and implement best practices in order to protect their OT infrastructure effectively. The following are some best practices for effective OT cybersecurity:

• Network segmentation: Network segmentation is essential as it enables organizations to isolate their OT networks from their main IT networks. This insulates OT assets from risk by limiting adversaries' ability to move laterally.

• Robust access controls: Organizations should implement strong access controls in alignment with the principle of least privilege, restricting access to OT assets only to the select few who require it. Utilizing MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) can also help to protect against breaches in the event that user credentials are compromised.

• Continuous monitoring: By continuously monitoring OT environments, security teams can ensure rapid detection and response in the case of anomalous behavior or a security incident. When implemented in conjunction with a robust response plane, this can significantly enhance threat readiness and resilience to better protect OT assets.

• Schedule patching and updating: Organizations should ensure that all OT systems and applications are regularly patched and updated to their latest version. This will provide protection against known vulnerabilities in their systems.

  
  

What Is the difference between OT cybersecurity and IoT cybersecurity?

OT (Operational Technology) cybersecurity and IoT (Internet of Things) cybersecurity are similar concepts in that they both pertain to practices for protecting devices and systems. However, there are some key distinctions between them.

IoT cybersecurity relates to the protection of interconnected Internet-facing devices, which can encompass all manner of technologies, from manufacturing robots to office printers. OT cybersecurity, on the other hand, has a more specific focus. It pertains to large-scale technologies, such as in industrial and manufacturing settings, which are typically critical to the essential daily operations of an organization. As such, there is a level of risk associated with OT security threats.

As technologies become more sophisticated, there is increasing overlap between these two areas of cybersecurity, and both play an important role in how modern organizations safeguard their operations against cyber threats.