The Internet of Things (IoT) and digital technologies have increased the threat of cyber attacks on Operational Technology (OT), impacting critical infrastructure sectors like energy and transportation.
OT systems manage physical processes critical for societal function and include industrial control systems, SCADA systems, and specialized machinery.
As industrial systems become more interconnected, cyber attacks on OT have escalated, posing risks of equipment damage and service disruptions.
Ransomware attacks, Advanced Persistent Threats (APT), DoS/DDoS attacks, Man-in-the-Middle attacks, and physical sabotage are common types of OT cyber attacks.
OT systems lack robust security measures like firewalls, encryption, and access controls, making them vulnerable to cyber threats.
Network segmentation, regular patching, multi-factor authentication, employee training, intrusion detection systems, and incident response plans are key strategies to protect OT systems.
OT cyber attacks can have severe consequences, such as contaminating water supplies or disrupting power grids, emphasizing the importance of OT cybersecurity.
Securing OT systems is crucial to maintaining public safety, health, and national security, requiring proactive measures and vigilance against cyber threats.
Industries must prioritize OT cybersecurity by implementing defenses, training personnel, and developing response plans to mitigate risks from cyber attacks.
By safeguarding critical infrastructure from cyber threats, businesses can ensure the resilience and security of essential services against future attacks.