What is Operational Technology (OT)?

Operational technology (OT) refers to hardware and software that detects or causes a change through the direct monitoring and/or control of industrial equipment, assets, processes and events. ¹ It’s the technology that makes physical systems work. Think of it as the nervous system of industrial operations.  

Key characteristics of OT:

• Direct Physical Interaction: OT systems interact with the real world, controlling machinery, processes, and infrastructure.
• Real-Time Operations: Many OT systems require real-time or near-real-time responses for critical functions.
• Industrial Focus: OT is primarily used in industrial sectors like manufacturing, energy, transportation, and utilities.
• Reliability and Safety: OT systems often have strict requirements for reliability and safety, as failures can have significant consequences.
• Long Lifecycles: OT equipment often has a long lifespan, sometimes decades, compared to consumer electronics.

OT vs. Consumer IoT:

While both OT and Consumer IoT involve connected devices, they differ significantly:

• Purpose:
  • OT: Controls and monitors industrial processes.
  • Consumer IoT: Enhances everyday life through convenience and automation.
• Environment:
  • OT: Industrial, often harsh environments.
  • Consumer IoT: Home, office, or personal environments.
• Reliability and Safety:
  • OT: Critical, with high reliability and safety requirements.
  • Consumer IoT: Less critical, with varying reliability and safety standards.
• Security:
  • OT: Historically isolated, now increasingly connected, with unique security challenges.
  • Consumer IoT: Often lacks robust security, vulnerable to attacks.
• Lifespan:
  • OT: Long lifespans, often decades.
  • Consumer IoT: Short lifespans, rapid obsolescence.
• Data:
  • OT: Data is used to control physical processes.
  • Consumer IoT: Data is used to enhance user experience.

Emerging Risks for OT in a Utilities Distribution Environment:

In a hypothetical utilities distribution monitoring and control environment (pipelines and transmission grids), the following emerging risks are significant:

• Cyberattacks on Critical Infrastructure:
  • Increased connectivity exposes OT systems to cyberattacks, potentially disrupting essential services like electricity and water.
  • Ransomware attacks can cripple operations, demanding payment to restore control.
  • State-sponsored attacks could target critical infrastructure for sabotage or espionage.
• Supply Chain Vulnerabilities:
  • Compromised OT components in the supply chain could introduce malware or vulnerabilities into critical systems.
  • Counterfeit or substandard equipment could lead to failures and safety hazards.
• Aging Infrastructure:
  • Many OT systems are aging, making them more vulnerable to failures and cyberattacks.
  • Replacing or upgrading these systems can be costly and disruptive.
• Insider Threats:
  • Malicious or negligent insiders could compromise OT systems, causing disruptions or data breaches.
  • This is especially true if the company does not have proper security protocols.
• Lack of Security Awareness:
  • OT personnel may lack cybersecurity expertise, making them susceptible to social engineering and other attacks.
  • A lack of understanding of new security threats can cause increased risk.
• Convergence of IT and OT:
  • The increasing integration of IT and OT systems creates new attack vectors and vulnerabilities.
  • This convergence also increases the attack surface.
• Remote Access Vulnerabilities:
  • Increased remote access to OT systems, especially during emergencies or maintenance, can introduce new security risks if not properly secured.
• Physical Security:
  • Physical access to remote monitoring stations, or pipelines, can be just as damaging as a cyber attack.
• AI and Automation risks:
  • As AI and automation become more entrenched in the system, the risks of a single point of failure increase. Also, the risks of AI being manipulated to cause damage increase.