Operational Technology (OT) environments are at a critical juncture. As cyber threats intensify, the convergence of OT and IT ecosystems demands immediate attention from CISOs and C-level executives across manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and transportation sectors. The stakes are high: the integrity of vital infrastructures and the safety of global populations depend on secure, reliable OT systems. But why is this convergence such a pressing issue for modern enterprises, and what steps can leaders take to address it effectively?

The Expanding Attack Surface in OT Environments

Unlike traditional IT systems, OT environments prioritize safety and availability over confidentiality. Yet, this priority creates unique vulnerabilities. Often decades old, legacy systems coexist with modern IT applications, forming a patchwork of outdated protocols and limited security measures. Threat actors exploit these weaknesses through tactics like ransomware, phishing, and targeted malware attacks, leading to significant downtime, financial losses, and even physical harm.

Recent statistics underscore the urgency: over 80% of organizations in critical infrastructure sectors faced ransomware attacks in 2021, and almost 50% of healthcare organizations have reported CPS incidents since 2022. Yet many failed to distinguish between IT and OT as the root causes of these incidents. Geopolitical factors and sophisticated attack strategies amplify these risks, targeting industries vital to national and economic security.

Beyond direct attacks, the broader implications of OT vulnerabilities include supply chain disruptions and cascading failures in interdependent infrastructures. For instance, a single power grid system breach can lead to outages across hospitals, transportation networks, and communication hubs, emphasizing the interconnected nature of OT environments.

Why CISOs Must Act Now

For CISOs, the message is clear: the time to treat OT cybersecurity as an extension of IT programs is over. Attempting to retrofit IT-based security solutions into OT environments often fails due to fundamental differences in system lifecycles, operational priorities, and risk tolerance. A tailored approach is needed to bridge the gap between these two realms, creating a unified, proactive cybersecurity strategy.

Building a Cybersecurity Program for OT

1. Start with Expertise: Many organizations already have skilled IT professionals but lack OT-specific expertise. Building or outsourcing a team with hands-on experience in OT frameworks such as NIST CSF and ISA/IEC 62443 is essential. These professionals can assess the unique challenges of OT environments while balancing safety and operational uptime.
2. Conduct Comprehensive Assessments: The foundation of a strong cybersecurity program is visibility. Conduct maturity and gap assessments to identify vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and potential points of compromise. Kudelski Security offers advanced OT assessments that include inventory accuracy validation, vulnerability testing, and incident response readiness.
3. Develop Tailored Policies: Policies must align with the realities of OT operations. For instance, while IT policies may mandate immediate patching, OT policies must accommodate operational schedules and system limitations. A clear, risk-based approach ensures these policies are both actionable and effective.
4. Leverage Technology Strategically: Avoid the common pitfall of starting with technology. Instead, implement solutions that complement a well-defined cybersecurity strategy. For example, Kudelski Security’s partnerships with leading vendors like Claroty and Crowdstrike enable seamless integration of advanced threat detection and response tools tailored to OT environments.
5. Adopt Zero Trust Principles: Zero trust is not just an IT concept. For OT, it involves network segmentation, role-based access controls, and continuous monitoring of connected devices. By limiting access on a need-to-know basis and enforcing least-privilege principles, organizations can significantly reduce their attack surface.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

The convergence of IT and OT presents an opportunity for innovation. Digital transformation initiatives, including the adoption of Industrial IoT (IIoT), edge computing, and digital twins, offer ways to modernize and secure OT environments. However, these advancements come with their own risks. Leaders must evaluate these technologies’ potential vulnerabilities and ensure that cybersecurity remains a cornerstone of their deployment.

Moreover, addressing OT cybersecurity challenges can enhance operational efficiency and reduce long-term costs. By integrating cybersecurity considerations into planning and decision-making, organizations can proactively prevent disruptions that would otherwise lead to significant financial and reputational damage. The competitive edge gained from robust OT security is not just about avoiding losses—it’s about fostering trust and resilience in an increasingly interconnected world.

Collaboration is another key factor. Industry-wide knowledge sharing, participation in frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK for ICS, and engagement with specialized cybersecurity providers can elevate an organization’s defensive posture. Additionally, as regulatory pressures increase, being ahead of compliance requirements can position organizations as industry leaders while avoiding penalties and operational setbacks.

As more industries recognize the importance of cybersecurity in OT environments, investments in training, education, and resource allocation will become critical. Building awareness among operational teams, fostering a culture of shared responsibility, and ensuring leadership buy-in are indispensable components of a sustainable cybersecurity strategy.

Mastering OT Security: How Kudelski Security Helps

Bringing unparalleled expertise to the OT domain, Kudelski Security delivers tailored advisory services and managed detection and response (MDR) solutions. As a Crowdstrike EMEA Partner of the Year, the team integrates world-class technology with deep industry knowledge to:

• Assess and mitigate risks across diverse OT environments.
• Monitor and respond to threats 24/7, minimizing operational disruptions.
• Develop comprehensive cybersecurity programs that align with regulatory standards and best practices.

This approach ensures that technology aligns smoothly with business goals. By starting with thorough gap assessments and leveraging detailed threat intelligence, the focus stays on keeping operations safe, reliable, and efficient. Advanced security tools, combined with expert advisory support, help businesses prepare for and respond effectively to emerging risks, building lasting resilience.

Take the Next Step in OT Security

The path to secure OT systems starts with informed decision-making and expert guidance. Schedule a consultation with Kudelski Security to assess your OT environment’s vulnerabilities and begin building a resilient cybersecurity program. Together, we can secure the heart of critical infrastructures and protect what matters most.

Visit Kudelski Security’s OT Services Page to learn more.