Bangkok, Thailand – Cyber threats are no longer confined to IT systems. Kaspersky reveals a growing trend of attacks targeting Operational Technology (OT) systems, urging organizations to integrate IT and OT systems and bolster holistic cybersecurity defenses.
- – Synology Unveils 4 New Solutions to Combat Rising Ransomware
- – Thai Students Champion Cyber Safety with Creative Videos
“Over the past 27 years, Kaspersky has witnessed significant advancements in IT cybersecurity. However, OT cybersecurity has lagged behind,” said Siang Tiong Yeo, General Manager for Southeast Asia at Kaspersky. “In recent years, we’ve observed a convergence of IT and OT, driven by factors such as digital transformation, the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain challenges, and the proliferation of IoT devices.”
The convergence of IT and OT brings numerous benefits, including increased data connectivity, real-time data analytics, improved system efficiency, and operational flexibility. However, it also comes with heightened cybersecurity risks.
Yeo cited the Stuxnet incident in 2010, the first major OT attack, where the Stuxnet malware was designed to target the control systems of a nuclear plant in Iran, causing significant disruption. This incident served as a wake-up call for organizations to prioritize OT cybersecurity.
Other OT attacks followed, such as the Target breach in 2015, where hackers gained access to the OT system through the air conditioning system, highlighting the interconnectedness of IT and OT and the need to secure both.
“Today, we see the innovative use of AI and Machine Learning in cybersecurity protection, as well as increased collaboration between public and private sectors in developing cybersecurity talent,” Yeo added. “Kaspersky continues to work closely with national cybersecurity agencies across Southeast Asia and law enforcement agencies to share insights and expertise in combating cyber threats.”
Looking ahead, further IT-OT integration is expected, along with the development of specialized OT security technologies. Additionally, cybersecurity regulations and compliance will play a crucial role as countries recognize the importance of protecting critical infrastructure.
However, IT-OT convergence is not without its challenges, particularly cultural differences between IT and OT teams, legacy systems with vulnerabilities, and a lack of standardization.
“It is vital to raise awareness, train employees, and adopt appropriate technologies,” Yeo emphasized. “Kaspersky is committed to developing comprehensive solutions that encompass prevention, detection, and response to empower organizations in effectively addressing cybersecurity challenges in the era of IT-OT convergence.”
#Kaspersky #ITOTConvergence #Cybersecurity #OTSecurity #Stuxnet #DigitalTransformation
