What Is Operational Technology (OT) Security?

What is OT security? Why is it important?

OT security protects the systems used to manage and control industrial processes and physical devices. OT security is crucial for maintaining the availability, reliability, and integrity of industrial operations, particularly with the rising number of cyberattacks targeting OT. This risk is amplified by IT/OT convergence and the proliferation of IoT, expanding the attack surface.

The different types of OT systems

Industrial Control Systems (ICS)

ICS stands for industrial control system, used to monitor and control industrial processes in manufacturing. It consists of interconnected devices, such as sensors, controllers, and actuators, managed by software systems like SCADA or DCS. ICS automation ensures efficient operations, but also introduces cybersecurity risks due to its connectivity and integration with IT systems and IoT devices. Protecting ICS from cyberthreats is crucial to maintain operational reliability and security in critical infrastructure.

Distributed Control Systems (DCS)

A distributed control system (DCS) is used in industrial settings to manage equipment and processes across multiple locations via a network of controllers. Unlike centralized systems, DCS decentralizes control functions, enabling real-time monitoring and adjustment of process variables and equipment status. This enhances operational efficiency and safety in industries such as manufacturing, oil refining, and power generation. DCS architecture facilitates seamless integration with other industrial automation systems, supporting complex operations and optimizing production workflows.

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)

Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) is a system used to monitor and control industrial processes and infrastructure remotely. It gathers real-time data from sensors and equipment, allowing operators to manage operations efficiently. Securing SCADA systems is crucial as they control critical manufacturing operations. Breaches can lead to disruptions, financial losses, or even safety hazards. Security measures protect against cyberthreats, ensuring the reliability, availability, and integrity of SCADA operations.

Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI)

HMI, which stands for human-machine interface, is a crucial component of operational technology systems. It serves as the interface between humans and machines, allowing operators to monitor and control processes efficiently. While HMI systems may not be as big of a cybersecurity risk compared to other parts of OT systems like PLCs or SCADA systems, they still require proper security measures. By implementing strong passwords, regular software updates, user authentication protocols, and network segmentation, the cybersecurity risks associated with HMI systems can be significantly mitigated.

Building Automation and Control (BAC)

A building automation and control system (BACS) integrates HVAC, lighting, security, and other building systems into a centralized platform for automated monitoring and control. It optimizes energy efficiency and improves overall building performance. BACS enables remote management and real-time monitoring, and ensuring cybersecurity is critical to avoiding disruption to manufacturing operations.

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)

IIoT, or Industrial Internet of Things, integrates devices and sensors in manufacturing to enhance efficiency and enable predictive maintenance. However, IoT's connectivity expands the attack surface, creating cybersecurity risks. Devices often lack robust security measures, making them vulnerable to hacking. Compromised IoT devices can be used to access networks, steal data, or disrupt operations. Protecting IIoT involves implementing strong encryption, regular updates, and network segmentation to mitigate these risks and ensure the reliability and security of industrial operations.

Key OT security challenges

OT security governance

As industrial systems become more connected, IT and OT teams need to work together to secure industrial networks, combining expertise and resources.

Patching OT systems

Software updates are essential for maintaining the security of OT systems; however, scheduling updates can be challenging to avoid downtime.

Insecure protocols

Many OT assets use protocols that are inherently insecure; however, updating these proprietary protocols can be difficult and may require downtime.

Remote access

Global and remote workforces need secure access to OT systems without having to travel on-site. Oftentimes today, this is done insecurely.

Why is OT cybersecurity important?

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Types of OT security threats

Collateral damage

Most OT security attacks originate from IT security breaches, but the disruption can spread to OT due to poor network segmentation.

Human error

Workers oftentimes introduce threats—intentionally and unintentionally—including via malware. Education and strong access controls are critical to mitigating risks.

Targeted attacks

More and more attacks are originating from organized actors seeking financial gain, political statements, and disruption to critical infrastructure. A defense-in-depth strategy is the best approach to mitigate risk.

IT security vs. OT security

OT security varies from IT security because of the nature of OT and manufacturing operations. OT is focused on availability and uptime of equipment. IT is focused on data security and confidentiality. OT faces fewer numbers of attacks historically; however, these attacks have greater consequences, including safety and environmental concerns. OT security patching is also at a lower frequency, given that patching often requires downtime.

The impact of OT security breaches

Because OT systems manage and monitor critical systems used in manufacturing and utilities, the impact of OT security breaches can have serious consequences. A breach can disrupt operations, impact revenue, or create serious safety risks for people, assets, and the environment.

The future of OT security

OT security is rapidly evolving, as the rise of attacks on OT systems, the emergence of new regulations, and the increasingly interconnected nature of IT and OT put pressure on old ways of working.

The future of OT security will include greater controls on data access and user authentication, patching of existing systems, and monitoring.

OT security solutions

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OT security frequently asked questions

What are best practices for OT security?

Best practices for operational technology (OT) security include several critical measures. First, segment OT networks from IT networks and ensure the security of integrations. Implement strict access controls using role-based access and multifactor authentication. Keep all systems and devices updated with the latest security patches. Continuously monitor OT networks for unusual activity and maintain detailed logs for analysis.

Develop and regularly update an incident response plan specific to OT environments. Provide ongoing training for employees on OT security best practices and potential threats. Ensure third-party vendors comply with your OT security policies and practices. Integrate security measures during the design and procurement stages of OT systems. Protect OT infrastructure from unauthorized physical access. Finally, conduct frequent security audits and risk assessments to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.

What is the difference between OT and IoT security?

OT security protects the systems used to control physical industrial processes, while IoT security focuses on protecting the data of connected devices.

OT security protects the safety and availability of systems that monitor and control physical operations to avoid disruption or downtime. IoT security ensures the confidentiality and integrity of IoT data.

What are the types of OT security?

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) defines OT as programmable systems or devices that interact with or manage the physical environment, and which either detect or cause a change in devices, processes, and events. Examples of OT include industrial control systems (ICS), building management platforms, fire control systems, and physical access control mechanisms. In industrial and manufacturing settings, ICS typically includes a variety of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), remote terminal units, and more.

What are the OT security frameworks and standards?

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides a framework for OT security for manufacturers. The guidance specifically is tailored towards protecting ICS amidst a rise in IoT devices and connectivity. The most widely used framework is NIST CSF as it provides clear guidance while being easy to implement and adopt.

National Institute and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework provides a flexible, customizable framework for manufacturers for cybersecurity. The framework provides guidance for governance, as well as how to identify, protect, detect, respond, and recover from cybersecurity incidents. It offers a taxonomy of cybersecurity outcomes and helpful guidance that can be achieved and leveraged by organizations of any size, sector, or maturity—but is flexible in not mandating any outcomes.

NIST 800-53 and substandards

NIST 800-53 provides a comprehensive set of security controls and guidelines for federal information systems and organizations. These controls include access control, incident response plans, and security frameworks for a range of security measures. Compliance is not mandatory for non-federal organizations; however, it may be required as part of contracts or agreements with federal agencies. In general, adhering to these guidelines can benefit the security of an organization’s information systems.

ISO 27000 series

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) provide a globally recognized framework for best practice information security management. The ISO 27000 series sets out specifications for an information security management system (ISMS). An ISMS implemented according to these standards mitigates risk across people, processes, and technology by defining workflows, policies, plans, and culture. While not designed specifically for OT, these standards improve the overall security of your industrial systems.

IEC 62443 and ISA 99 standards

The IEC 62443 series of standards, formerly known as the ISA 99 standard, is a set of standards that provide a framework specifically for addressing vulnerability in industrial automation and control systems. The standards were developed by the International Society of Automation and adopted by the International Society of Automation and International Electrotechnical Commission. These are applicable across all industry sectors and critical infrastructure.

How to conduct an OT security risk assessment?

There are typically three phases to conducting an OT security risk assessment.

Phase 1: Interviews and review data

The first phase of creating an OT security program is to set goals and assess where you stand. IT and OT teams should interview and review data about the systems in place at each site to gain global understanding of what exists today.

Phase 2: Technical analysis of network and endpoint risk

The second phase of creating an OT security program is to perform a risk assessment using technical analysis of network and endpoint risk. Identifying exact vulnerabilities and mapping against the requirements of regulations and best practice frameworks will be critical for rationalizing and planning a path forward.

Phase 3: Development of prioritized road map

The third phase of creating an OT security program is to create a prioritized road map. This involves translating risks into action plans, whether through establishment of governance, modification of processes, or upgrading systems. Each of the road map items will need to be mapped against timelines, considering business objectives, budget, and resources. Once a robust and socialized road map is in place, it’s time to execute.

OT Security