The IT/OT Convergence: Increased Connectivity, Increased Risk
The world of industrial operations is transforming rapidly. Driven by Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Operational Technology (OT) environments are becoming increasingly interconnected with Information Technology (IT) systems. This convergence unlocks tremendous opportunities for industrial enterprises to optimize processes, enhance productivity, and gain a competitive edge. However, it also exposes these environments to a broader range of cyber threats, making robust cybersecurity measures more critical than ever before.
The Expanding Attack Surface
Traditionally, OT environments were isolated from the outside world, providing a degree of inherent security. However, the IT/OT convergence has blurred the lines between these once-separate domains, creating new entry points for attackers. This expanding attack surface has led to a surge in cyberattacks targeting industrial control systems (ICS), the backbone of critical infrastructure.
The Claroty Global State of Industrial Cybersecurity Report paints a stark picture of this escalating threat landscape. The report reveals a 75% increase in organizations experiencing ransomware attacks, often originating from the IT environment and impacting OT operations. These attacks can have devastating consequences, disrupting production, causing financial losses, and even jeopardizing public safety.
The Consequences of Cyberattacks
Cyberattacks on industrial environments can take many forms, from targeted ransomware attacks to sophisticated malware designed to disrupt critical processes. The consequences of these attacks can be severe, including:
- Unplanned Downtime: Production disruptions can lead to significant financial losses ($4.2M/hour according to Copia’s State of Industrial DevOps Report), especially in industries with high output value or time-sensitive processes.
- Equipment Damage: Malware or malicious commands can damage or destroy critical equipment, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
- Data Breaches: Sensitive data, such as intellectual property or customer information, can be stolen or compromised, damaging reputation and eroding trust.
- Safety Risks: In some cases, cyberattacks can compromise safety systems, putting workers and the public at risk.
Protecting Your Operations
The growing threat landscape underscores the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures in industrial environments. Organizations must adopt a proactive approach to security, implementing strategies to identify, assess, and mitigate risks before they can be exploited.
The IT/OT convergence brings both opportunities and challenges. By understanding the evolving threat landscape and implementing robust cybersecurity measures, industrial organizations can protect their critical infrastructure, ensure operational continuity, and reap the benefits of digital transformation.
Stay tuned for the next post in this series, where we'll explore the role of Industrial DevOps in enhancing cybersecurity and operational efficiency. In the meantime, we invite you to view Copia’s joint webinar with Claroty, 4 Steps to Safeguarding the Future of Industrial Operations, to learn more about the convergence of cybersecurity and Industrial DevOps.
