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Writer's pictureWill Smith

What's Missing in OT Cybersecurity Reports?

Hey there! If you're involved in operational technology (OT) cybersecurity, you've probably come across reports like the 2024 State of Operational Technology and Cybersecurity or the Dragos 2023 Year in Review on OT Cybersecurity. They're packed with valuable insights about the current state of OT security, pointing out rising threats like ransomware and growing vulnerabilities in critical sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and utilities.


But have you ever wondered what's not in these reports? Sometimes, what isn't said can be just as important as what is. By looking at what's missing, we can find gaps that might change how we think about OT cybersecurity. So, let's dive into some areas that could use a bit more attention.


1. Too Much Focus on Incidents, Not Enough on Prevention

These reports tend to spotlight incidents, breaches, and attack numbers. But what about the organizations that are successfully preventing attacks? What are they doing differently? By only focusing on the problems, we might be missing out on learning from those who are getting it right. We should balance the narrative by also highlighting effective prevention strategies.



2. Overlooking Human Factors and Security Culture

While there's a lot of talk about technical solutions like network segmentation and monitoring, the human element often gets less attention. Mistakes happen—people misconfigure systems or follow unsafe practices—and these can lead to breaches. Are companies investing in employee training and building a strong security culture? How is leadership fostering an environment where security is everyone's responsibility? These are important pieces of the puzzle.


3. Not Considering Financial Barriers Enough

It's easy to say companies should do more, like conducting regular penetration tests or updating systems. But let's be real—budgets can be tight, especially for smaller organizations. Could financial constraints be causing some companies to cut corners on cybersecurity? If so, how can we develop solutions that are both effective and affordable?


4. Skipping Over Regional Differences

The reports mention global geopolitical tensions but don't dig into how OT cybersecurity varies by region. Different areas have different regulations, resources, and challenges. Understanding these regional nuances could give us a clearer picture of the global OT security landscape and help tailor solutions more effectively.


5. Reactive vs. Proactive Strategies

There's a lot of emphasis on reacting to incidents, but what about being proactive? Are organizations taking steps to mitigate risks before they become problems? Are there innovative practices out there that could help others stay ahead of threats? Shifting some focus to proactive strategies could be a game-changer.


6. Missing the Small Manufacturers' Perspective

Lastly, the reports seem to focus on large enterprises, leaving out smaller manufacturing companies. These businesses might face unique challenges like limited budgets, less regulatory guidance, or fewer resources. By including their experiences and insights, we could gain a more complete understanding of the industry's needs.



Join the Conversation!

If you're a small manufacturer or work with smaller companies, we'd love to hear from you. What OT cybersecurity challenges are you facing, and what solutions are you putting into action? Your experiences can help fill in the gaps and contribute to a more inclusive discussion.


Let's work together to address what's missing and build a stronger OT cybersecurity community!

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