The Importance of Safeguarding Operational Technology (OT) Systems

Operational Technology (OT) systems, the backbone of many industries including manufacturing, utilities, and transportation, are under increasing threat from cyberattacks. These systems control physical processes in industries, and any disruption due to a cyberattack could lead to production halts and significant revenue losses.

The safety and integrity of OT systems are paramount as they have a direct impact on the physical world. A cyberattack could result in equipment damage, environmental disasters, and even pose risks to human safety. Furthermore, cyberattacks on OT systems can lead to substantial financial losses due to production downtime and the cost of remediation.

Many industries are subject to regulations that mandate the protection of their OT systems from cyber threats. Non-compliance can lead to penalties and damage to the company’s reputation, leading to a loss of customers and business.

Therefore, it is crucial to implement robust security measures for OT systems to protect against potential cyber threats. This includes ensuring proper access controls, fixing vulnerabilities, and training employees to follow best security practices.

In a recent Forbes article, the rising cyber threats to OT systems were highlighted. These systems, which control critical infrastructure, are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals. Gartner predicts that by 2025, OT environments could be weaponized to cause human harm. Unlike IT attacks that steal data, OT attacks aim to control industrial systems and can lead to physical damage, such as power plant explosions, posing a threat to human life. The article also pointed out that OT systems are often outdated and lack proper monitoring, making them susceptible to undetected threats. Routine maintenance schedules also fail to address security needs.

In conclusion, the importance of safeguarding OT systems cannot be overstated. As the backbone of many industries, these systems need robust security measures to ensure their integrity and the safety of the physical world they interact with.

Zeektek is an IT staffing and solutions company located in the Greater Sacramento Area. Founded in 2016 by staffing industry veterans John Stuart and Chad Daugherty, Zeektek was formed under the most basic of principles and qualities – loyalty, good listening and honesty. Zeektek is intensely focused on people, community and technology. For these efforts, Zeektek has been recognized with numerous awards and ranked on several industry lists, including Staffing Industry Analysts’ Best Staffing Firms list. To learn more, go to www.zeektek.com.