Threat landscape for OT networks

The days of isolated Operational Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT) security are long gone, giving way to an integrated network environment susceptible to sophisticated threats. The emergence of ICS-tailored malware, such as CRASHOVERRIDE, STUXNET, BLACKENERGY 2, and HAVEX, has highlighted the critical need for a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity.

Evolution of Integration: IT and OT Networks

The integration of OT with IT networks has become a necessary but challenging evolution. This shift is driven by the adoption of IT systems and protocols for control and management within OT environments. However, this integration brings new challenges, making the network more vulnerable to adversaries.

Initial Attack Vectors: Exploiting the 'Lowest Lying Fruit'

In many cases, IT networks become the initial attack vectors due to their perceived vulnerability as the 'lowest lying fruit.' Once these stages are complete, attackers shift their focus to developing customized malware for the OT infrastructure under attack. This customization is necessary due to the wide range of proprietary standards and the long update cycles of both software and hardware.

The Prolonged Battle in OT Security

Attacks on OT infrastructure differ from those on IT networks, often taking a longer period to execute due to the inherent complexities involved. The diversity in protocols and implementations, even within the same vendor, compounds the challenges in securing OT environments.

Connected Networks: A Double-Edged Sword

The connectivity between IT and OT networks, maintained for remote management, patch management, and email services, presents both convenience and risk. While these connections provide easy access for system owners, they also offer potential entry points for adversaries seeking access to OT networks.

Adversarial Strategies: From Sabotage to Financial Motivations

Adversaries may run long-term campaigns to disrupt or destroy organizational capacity, using tactics ranging from information gathering to ransomware attacks. Understanding these motives is crucial for developing effective preventive, detection, and response strategies.

Crucial Aspects of OT Security: Visibility, Detection, and Response

The cornerstone of OT security lies in achieving visibility, detection, and response capabilities. This requires a deep understanding of both IT and OT networks, highlighting the need for security teams to be specialists in both domains.

Specialized Training: The Key to Effectiveness

To detect and mitigate impending attacks, specialized training for personnel, processes, and technology is imperative. Real-life scenarios, especially those specific to OT networks, are vital for building the skills needed to stay ahead of adversaries.

The Role of OT Security Experts

Bringing decades of experience, OT security experts drive the necessary changes to improve organizational security posture. Their industry-specific knowledge ensures a proactive and effective defense against evolving threats, steering away from a false sense of security that may arise from applying traditional IT approaches to OT networks.

Conclusion: A Proactive Approach to OT Security

As we navigate the complex landscape of OT security in a connected world, our commitment is to enhance visibility, detection, and response capabilities specific to OT networks. By leveraging our expertise, we aim to empower organizations to stay resilient in the face of evolving cyber threats and ensure a secure digital future.