At the heart of effective operational technology (OT) cybersecurity lies trust. Establishing and maintaining trust is foundational to safeguarding industrial operations and critical infrastructures.

Traditionally, OT systems operated in isolated environments, disconnected from external networks, making cybersecurity a low priority. However, the rapid expansion of digital transformation initiatives and the convergence of IT and OT networks have exposed these systems to cyber risks.

In this evolving landscape, trusted advisors play a crucial role in strengthening OT cybersecurity. Organizations need experienced cybersecurity partners who understand the complexities of industrial environments and can navigate their unique challenges. These experts serve as the backbone of cybersecurity efforts, ensuring that security strategies align with operational realities.

What makes a trusted advisor?

Trusted advisors in OT cybersecurity include professionals from diverse backgrounds, including consultancy firms, automation vendors, security solution providers, system integrators, and IT and OT cybersecurity service providers. They have the OT cybersecurity expertise and understanding of industrial processes and control systems. However, beyond their affiliations, what truly defines trusted advisors is their diverse expertise and professional approaches:​

1.       Operational and process expertise

Just like a neurologist must thoroughly understand the nervous system, OT cybersecurity professionals must possess profound insights into industrial processes specific to the industry they serve—be it oil and gas, utilities, manufacturing, or transportation. This ensures that cybersecurity initiatives enhance and enable industrial operations, maintenance, and production.

In industrial cybersecurity, one misstep can lead to catastrophic failures—operational downtime, physical damage, or even threats to human safety. This is why organizations must rely on seasoned and deeply knowledgeable trusted advisors cybersecurity professionals who:

✔ Understand industrial processes and business requirements alongside cybersecurity threats.

✔ Bridge the IT-OT gap by ensuring security strategies align with operational and engineering constraints.

✔ Provide strategic guidance on digital transformation and risk management, ensuring cybersecurity enables rather than obstructs business and operational goals.

2.       Understanding of automation and digital transformation

Crafting an effective OT cybersecurity strategy needs a comprehensive understanding of an organization's digital transformation objectives and business drivers. Trusted advisors work closely with business leaders to develop strategies and architectures that support and accelerate digital transformation.

The integration of IIoT, remote monitoring, and cloud-based analytics has accelerated digital transformation across industries. However, if cybersecurity is not built into these innovations, they can introduce significant vulnerabilities.

3.       In-depth Industrial Control Systems (ICS) experience

A superficial understanding of terms like Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) or Distributed Control Systems (DCS) isn’t sufficient. Trusted advisors must grasp the nuances of various ICS implementations across different environments. For instance, power generation systems differ significantly from power transmission or distribution systems. Recognizing these distinctions is crucial, as cybersecurity approaches must be tailored to the specific requirements of each system.

ICS environments use specialized communication protocols such as Modbus, DNP3, and IEC 61850, which were designed for reliability, not security. While the implementation of security controls like encryption in IT environments is common, implementing such controls in OT networks could cause unacceptable latency that could negatively impact the OT network and systems. Accordingly, these OT systems often lack encryption, authentication, and access controls, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals.

4.       Differentiating OT, IoT, and IIoT

In OT cybersecurity, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. The cybersecurity controls and architectures for OT environments are different from those for IoT and IIoT. Even within IoT ecosystems, cybersecurity strategies for devices connected via gateways may differ significantly from those interfacing through Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). Trusted advisors recognize these differences and ensure the right security measures are applied to the right context. They understand that OT, IoT, and IIoT have different security models, requiring customized security strategies.

5.       Avoiding misconceptions about IT systems in OT environments and adapting practical approaches

Unlike IT environments, where frequent patching is standard, OT systems need careful risk assessment before applying IT-centric controls to avoid disruptions in operations. Therefore, it's imperative to evaluate the Statement of Applicability (SoA) meticulously to ensure that cybersecurity measures do not adversely impact industrial processes. Trusted advisors assess risks carefully and ensure that security measures fit the operational realities of industrial systems.

Over the past decade, a recurring observation is the recommendation of cybersecurity controls that are impractical or unfeasible within OT environments. For example, mandates to patch systems within unrealistic timeframes fail to account for the operational realities of OT systems, some of which cannot be patched due to their critical functions. Trusted advisors adopt a risk-based approach to identify and prioritize assets that require immediate attention, ensuring that security measures are both effective and operationally feasible.

6.       Critical evaluation of AI and search engine recommendations

While AI tools like ChatGPT offer valuable insights, they aggregate information from diverse sources, which may include inaccuracies. Relying solely on such tools without consulting seasoned trusted advisors can lead to the implementation of inappropriate controls, potentially jeopardizing complex OT/IoT/IIoT environments. It's imperative to critically assess AI-generated recommendations, aligning them with established standards like IEC 62443, which outlines 51 security requirements categorized under seven foundational requirements for Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS).

Conclusion

In essence, trusted advisors bridge the gap between cybersecurity and industrial operations. Their industry-specific expertise, practical risk management, and a deep understanding of both security and operational realities make them indispensable. In an ever-evolving OT landscape, having the right advisor makes all the difference.

The imperative of trust in OT cybersecurity includes:

✔ OT cybersecurity goes much beyond just technology and ensures operational resilience and safety.

✔ Security controls must align with industrial processes rather than disrupt them.

✔ Organizations must rely on deeply experienced trusted advisors to navigate the complexities of OT security.

✔ Cyber threats against industrial systems are increasing in frequency and sophistication. Organizations must prioritize trust, collaboration, and risk-based security strategies to protect global critical infrastructure.

At CPX, our team of OT cybersecurity experts helps organizations strengthen their defenses while ensuring operational continuity. They bring deep industry knowledge, practical risk management, and tailored cybersecurity strategies to secure your critical infrastructure.

Get in touch to discuss how we can help secure your systems. Write to us at ContactUs@cpx.net.