What is OT Security
Operational Technology (OT) comprises the hardware and software for monitoring, controlling and monitoring physical processes and infrastructures. Examples range from machines that monitor manufacturing processes to critical infrastructure such as electricity and water supplies. OT systems have become increasingly linked to IT systems through digitalization. This connection has made OT systems less isolated and therefore more vulnerable to cyber attacks.
OT-Security describes the protection of these systems through various security measures. OT systems are particularly worth protecting, as a failure could trigger a devastating domino effect. Measures and best practices to mitigate the risk are described in the chapter Best practices for securing OT systems explained.
The dangers of OT security
The complexity of OT systems poses a variety of risks for companies. One danger is the integration of IT and OT. Attackers could look for unsecured interfaces and exploit them. Another problem is that OT systems are often older and were produced at a time when cybersecurity did not yet play an important role. Such vulnerabilities are readily exploited by attackers. What makes the whole situation even more difficult is the lack of tools for monitoring. In the event of an attack on OT systems, it is essential to find out as quickly as possible which vulnerability the attacker has exploited. This task is made much more difficult if there are no effective monitoring and logging systems.
Risks from attacks on OT systems
A cyber attack on OT systems could have fatal consequences for a company. There are various ways in which an attack of this kind can occur. One is a production outage caused by the attacker. Another is the manipulation of data. This could have far-reaching consequences for critical infrastructures, for example. If certain temperature data or other measured values are manipulated. In the worst case, physical equipment or even people could be damaged. These attacks not only cause extremely high financial costs, but also damage to reputation and loss of trust.
History shows what impact a successful cyber attack can have on critical infrastructures. One example of this is the Stuxnet virus. This was developed to sabotage Iran's nuclear facilities. In the end, Stuxnet led to the nuclear program in Iran being set back by up to two years. The estimated damage caused by Stuxnet is in the three-digit million range. This case is intended to show how difficult it is, even for experts, to recognize a virus in the system and take measures to prevent it.
Best practices for securing OT systems
There are a number of best practices that organizations can use to secure their OT systems. One of the most effective methods of securing OT systems is the Zero trust approach. Here, every access to the system or the network is seen as a potential threat. This helps to minimize attack surfaces and prevent unauthorized access.
Another best practice is the network segmentation of OT systems and the IT network. This reduces the risk of a lateral attack (a lateral attack works in such a way that the attacker does not penetrate directly into the main target, but into a weaker system and from there into the main target).
A rather simple best practice that should not be underestimated is the regular updating and patching of systems. Outdated software is often the weak point in OT systems, which can be counteracted with constant updates and patches. Continuous monitoring of the systems is also essential. This allows you to detect unusual activities at an early stage and save time.
However, the most important best practice is to train and sensitize employees. The employee is still the biggest security gap. It is therefore essential to train employees regularly and make them aware of the risks and how to behave in a compliant manner. In the event of a cyber attack, it is an advantage if every employee knows what to do. This allows the problem to be resolved more quickly.
Conclusion
The security of OT systems is a challenge for companies today, where IT and OT are becoming increasingly interlinked. Successful attacks on OT systems cause significant damage and can have serious consequences for companies and customers. By using Zero Trust, continuous monitoring and regularly updating systems, companies can better protect their OT infrastructures and minimize the impact of cyberattacks. OT security is an ongoing process and it is important to keep up to date with the latest technology.
