Securing Critical Infrastructure: Addressing Anticipated OT Security Challenges

Summary

This year we have seen a growing number of cyberattacks against critical infrastructure. Coupled with the rising integration of advanced technologies, such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and AI, industrial enterprises face the imperative of prioritizing security within their OT environments.  

Historically, the cybersecurity industry has focused on information technology (IT) challenges. However, within mission critical industries, this tactic is not suitable as digital transformation accelerates the convergence between IT and OT environments. The reality is IT security strategies do not translate to the unique needs of OT, effectively leaving the full organization open to greater risks.

Facing a rising number of OT-related vulnerabilities, the need for skilled cybersecurity leaders has become evident. But in this context, something that also becomes evident is the gap in specialized OT cybersecurity. In fact, the skills shortage has gotten worse in the last two years, according to 54% of cybersecurity professionals. Today, finding professionals capable of skillfully deploying, managing and securing various environments while bridging IT and OT is becoming even more burdensome.

With this in mind, let's explore these unique cybersecurity issues further, and dive into the anticipated hurdles within OT environments, including the risk to cyber-physical safety, the security threat of smart technologies and the impact of automation on the industrial job market. We’ll also dive into the criticality of the “human element” within OT environments, and steps to mitigate the ongoing OT security skills gap.
 

Cyber threats in OT/ICS: A risk to physical safety

Currently, we're witnessing cybercriminals breach sensitive geographical information impacting the physical safety of individuals such as the theft of school blueprints in Minneapolis. This same element of attack is being leveraged in industrial settings. Protecting workers from physical safety threats will be a critical area of concern for organizations this coming year.

For example, malicious actors in industrial settings can hack into devices and cause malfunctions, or compromise systems including water, transportation, energy or other critical platforms which can cause significant harm to the community or region. When we talk about safety, we reference physical safety – for example, workers in OT environments can be seriously injured when an industrial boiler or blast furnace malfunctions from unauthorized interference.

From shutdowns to equipment failure, OT/ICS cybersecurity safeguards industrial environments, which typically involve machinery, PLCs, and communication across industrial protocol, which can have devastating results if not prioritized. As malicious actors continue to enhance their attack methods in both IT and OT environments, security leaders will need to find the proper balance between securing both systems, especially as these environments increasingly converge.

The double-edged sword of IIoT in critical environments

In 2024, the increasing integration of IIoT devices will lead to a significant rise in threats to OT security. IIoT devices have traditionally enabled a wide array of advancements in smart factories, making them more intelligent, safe and efficient. For instance, AI/ML-driven technologies can be used to monitor vital signs, automate factory lighting, observe performance metrics and enhance overall worker safety. AI-intelligent factory robot dogs can also assist in manufacturing processes and ensure the safety of employees in the field.
 
However, the accelerated implementation of IIoT devices will simultaneously make organizations exponentially more vulnerable to cyber threats. Smart factories generate numerous amounts of crucial data, and this vast amount of information will become increasingly difficult to analyze and secure efficiently, which can hinder its optimization and place organizations at risk of cyberattacks. As this threat increases, we’ll begin to see a growing demand for OT security experts, as the skills gap in this area will be critical for organizations to fill given the vulnerable smart technologies that continue to be integrated within these environments.

AI to enhance, not replace

With AI technologies on the rise, many employees across industrial sectors are concerned about the impact on the job market. Their concerns are justified, as we’ve recently seen companies conduct mass layoffs under the impression that ‘smart technologies’ are fully capable of replacing humans. However, especially in industrial environments, AI will support and enhance human work - not replace it.

While automation will minimize the need for human workers to engage in mundane tasks, there are still settings that remain crucial in navigating complex contextual situations. For example, the automation of sorting through packages will benefit workers by limiting the number of injury-prone repetitive tasks they must perform. However, the need for human understanding will be imperative for specific products, deliveries or noticing nuances that otherwise would be lost in translation with smart technologies. In 2024, industrial organizations will realize the need to retrain and redeploy essential workers, not replace them. These employees will be upskilled in new positions including overseeing new technologies, data analysis and OT security.

Bolstering security through people and process

Given the increasing number of cyberattacks, the growing integration of advanced technologies and the unique challenges that OT environments face, it will be critical for organizations to find new approaches and strategies for OT security.

Technology alone won’t defend against the attacks in OT security’s evolving threat landscape. By integrating the specialized skills of OT experts, organizations will be empowered with the right strategies and solutions to effectively protect their systems and their workers from evolving threats. Ultimately, enhancing operations, and keeping their mission-critical systems up and running.