operational technology

Designing Safer Links: Secure Connectivity for Operational Technology

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New guidance outlines eight core principles for designing, reviewing, and securing connectivity to and within OT systems. These principles, developed from the NCSC’s experience and industry engagement, aim to help organizations reduce attack surfaces and improve incident response. The guidance encourages OT owners, operators, integrators, and vendors to implement these principles for stronger connectivity design.

https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/blog-post/designing-safer-links-secure-connectivity-for-ot

2026 and Beyond: Urgent Need for Integrated Cybersecurity Strategies in Evolving Industrial Landscape

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Integrated cybersecurity strategies are now essential in industrial environments due to increasing threats and past lessons from 2025. Organizations must enhance risk management, improve IT/OT collaboration, and adopt a proactive security approach. Nation-state actors target critical infrastructure, exploiting vulnerabilities through persistent access rather than immediate disruption. Zero trust principles must adapt to legacy systems while balancing safety. Digital transformation complicates risk management, necessitating governance across IT and OT. Unified strategies involving risk quantification and governance are critical for operational resilience in 2026.

https://industrialcyber.co/features/2026-and-beyond-urgent-need-for-integrated-cybersecurity-strategies-in-evolving-industrial-landscape/

CISA Publishes Security Guidance for Using AI in OT

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Global cybersecurity agencies released new guidance on safely deploying AI in operational technology systems, citing the high risks involved. OT is essential for critical infrastructure, and integrating AI can introduce risks such as model drift, safety bypasses, and process instability. Agencies urge thorough education on AI risks, a careful assessment of when to use AI, strong data controls, and transparent governance. Recommendations also emphasize the importance of monitoring and fail-safe processes, including human oversight. Experts note that while AI may enhance efficiency, its use in OT should be limited and highly disciplined, especially with high-risk models like large language models.

https://www.darkreading.com/cybersecurity-operations/cisa-publishes-security-guidance-ai-ot

New Joint Guide Advances Secure Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Operational Technology

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CISA & ASD released a guide for secure AI integration in Operational Technology (OT), highlighting risks and principles to ensure safety in critical infrastructure. Key steps include: educate on AI, assess risks, establish governance, and embed security.

https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/news/new-joint-guide-advances-secure-integration-artificial-intelligence-operational-technology

Understanding Your OT Environment: the First Step To Stronger Cybersecurity

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New guidance for operational technology (OT) aims to create a comprehensive ‘definitive record’ of OT environments to improve cybersecurity. This includes documenting system components, connectivity, architecture, supply chain access, and potential impacts of failures. Effective cybersecurity relies on visibility and management of sensitive information. The guidance, produced with international partners, encourages collaboration in maintaining updated records for informed decision-making.

https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/blog-post/understanding-ot-environment-1step-stronger-cyber-security

CISOs/CSOs Now Responsible for OT in Most Firms

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CISOs/CSOs are increasingly responsible for operational technology (OT) security, with 52% of organizations reporting this compared to 16% in 2022. C-suite oversight of OT has risen to 95%, improving security maturity and reducing intrusion impacts. Key findings include a growth in OT security practices and vendor consolidation among organizations.

https://www.frontier-enterprise.com/cisos-csos-now-responsible-for-ot-in-most-firms/

How IT and OT Are Merging: Opportunities and Tips

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IT and OT convergence enhances security, streamlines processes, and cuts costs. A study of 31 CIOs from various industries found most believe in coexistence under a shared vision. Key insights include: CIOs lead convergence in 61% of firms, rising security concerns drive integration, and the importance of data management and communication. Recommendations for effective collaboration include top management support, appointing a central OT manager, and fostering physical proximity between teams. Despite benefits, only 13% of companies are fully integrated, highlighting room for improvement.

https://www.cio.com/article/3991355/how-it-and-ot-are-growing-together.html

Primary Mitigations to Reduce Cyber Threats to Operational Technology

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CISA and other agencies recommend key mitigations for critical infrastructure to reduce cyber threats targeting operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems (ICS):

  1. Remove OT connections to the internet.
  2. Change default passwords to strong, unique ones.
  3. Secure remote access with private network connections and strong authentication.
  4. Document and configure remote access solutions based on least privilege.
  5. Segment IT and OT networks.
  6. Maintain the capability to operate OT systems manually.

Organizations should collaborate with service providers to fix potential misconfigurations. Regular communication and established best practices are essential for enhancing cybersecurity posture.

https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/resources/primary-mitigations-reduce-cyber-threats-operational-technology

News: The Hidden Risk: How Cybersecurity Impacts Operational Continuity in Automation

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Cybersecurity risks threaten operational continuity in automated industries due to increasing connectivity of Industrial Control Systems (ICS). The integration of IT and operational technology enhances efficiency but exposes systems to cyber threats, as shown by events like Stuxnet and recent ransomware attacks. Vulnerabilities include outdated technologies, poor network separation, and insufficient employee training. Best practices for enhanced cybersecurity include risk assessments, network segmentation, limited user access, and regular training. Following international cybersecurity standards, such as IEC 62443 and frameworks like NIST CSF, is crucial for safeguarding industrial automation against evolving cyber threats.

https://www.automate.org/news/-81

Urgent Need for Resilient Industrial Cybersecurity Professionals to Defend ICS/OT Systems From Rising Cyber Attacks

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Demand for resilient industrial cybersecurity experts is rising due to increased cyber threats against ICS/OT systems. Specialized knowledge is crucial, encompassing technical skills in network security, risk assessment, and incident response. Essential certifications include GICSP and CISSP. Career paths vary, requiring awareness of legacy systems and operational protocols. Professionals must engage in continuous learning and mentorship to stay updated on evolving threats. Networking and participation in industry conferences enhance career growth in this critical sector, supporting the defense of vital infrastructure against cyber attacks.

https://industrialcyber.co/features/urgent-need-for-resilient-industrial-cybersecurity-professionals-to-defend-ics-ot-systems-from-rising-cyber-attacks/

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