The Necessity of Converged IT/OT SOC in Strengthening Cybersecurity for Today's Industrial Landscape

/

[Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik]

In the contemporary era of technology, embracing a Converged IT/OT SOC (Security Operations Center) is crucial for fortifying cybersecurity measures within industrial organizations. As the digital realm expands, businesses must adapt to safeguard their operations against potential cyber threats.

The Critical Role of Cybersecurity in Industrial Organizations

The increasing dependence on technology has made cybersecurity a top priority for companies across various sectors. A security breach could lead to disastrous consequences, including operational disruptions, tarnishing brand reputation, and negatively affecting a business's financial position. In light of this, it is essential to examine the evolving cybersecurity landscape, the obstacles faced by industrial organizations, and the advantages of adopting Yokogawa's cloud-based IT/OT SOC service for a comprehensive security approach.

Staggering Statistics: The Growing Threat of Cyber Attacks

The following facts demonstrate the urgency of implementing robust cybersecurity measures:

•              Industrial organizations experienced an 87% increase in ransomware attacks in 2022 (Dragos)

•              Cybercrime costs are projected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025 (Cybersecurity Ventures)

•              85% of customers will switch to a competitor if they believe a company cannot protect their data responsibly.

•              An estimated 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity positions will exist globally by 2025 (Cybersecurity Ventures)

These figures emphasize the importance of proactive security measures to counter emerging cyber threats effectively.

Figure -- Common Vulnerabilities in IT and OT Environments

The Convergence of IT and OT Domains: Opportunities and Challenges

The integration of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) domains offers businesses new opportunities to optimize OT data usage. However, this interconnectedness also exposes organizations to sophisticated cyber threats. Cybercriminals are increasingly employing advanced tools and technologies to target corporate networks and OT systems, jeopardizing data integrity and network security.

The Need for Proactive Cybersecurity Measures

To combat these evolving and emerging threats, companies must implement proactive security measures that can detect and respond to new cyber-attacks effectively. This is where the Converged IT/OT SOC plays a crucial role in providing a holistic security solution.

Examples of key proactive security outcomes:

•                     Early detection and prevention of attacks.

•                     Continuous monitoring and analysis of threat intelligence.

•                     Efficient incident response planning and execution.

•                     Minimization of financial losses associated with cyber incidents.

•                     Protection of sensitive data from unauthorized access.

•                     Compliance with industry regulations and standards.

•                     Maintenance of reputation and customer trust.

•                     Prevention of disruption to business operations.

•                     Mitigation of potential legal and regulatory penalties.

•                     Staying one step ahead of evolving cybercriminal tactics.

Yokogawa's Cloud-Based IT/OT SOC: A Comprehensive Security Solution

Yokogawa identified the need for an integrated security solution, leading to the development of their internal security monitoring service for their global IT infrastructure in 2019. This service involved monitoring personal computers, DNS/AD servers, intrusion detection systems, and factory systems, processing an astounding 600 million events daily. By utilizing cyber threat intelligence (CTI) and machine learning (ML) programs, Yokogawa gained valuable experience, which contributed to the creation of their cloud-based IT/OT SOC service. This service offers customers a consistent and integrated security strategy for both IT and OT domains.

Distinguishing IT and OT Security

IT and OT domains were traditionally managed separately, but their networks are now interconnected to optimize OT data usage. However, there are several differences to consider when designing an OT SOC. In IT security, confidentiality is prioritized to defend against threats like malware, phishing, and unauthorized access. In contrast, the priority in OT security is availability, focusing on safety, reliability, and productivity. Furthermore, security standards, communication protocols, and customer support differ between IT and OT, necessitating specialized expertise in managing OT security effectively.

Advantages of a Converged IT/OT SOC

Integrating IT and OT security operations under a single umbrella offers numerous benefits to organizations:

1.             Integrated Visibility and Enterprise Control: Centralized monitoring and response to security incidents enable organizations to have a comprehensive view of their security posture.

2.             Faster Threat Detection and Response: As most attacks on OT systems originate from the IT network, a converged IT/OT SOC allows for proactive threat detection and response.

3.             Real-time Monitoring and Automated Workflows: Enhanced efficiency and avoidance of siloed security operations are achieved through continuous monitoring and automation.

4.             Cost-effectiveness: Shared resources, technology, and facilities enable organizations to optimize their security investments.

5.             A Multi-functional Approach: Accommodating both legacy and modern systems while providing incident response training and support ensures a comprehensive security strategy.

Embracing Converged IT/OT SOC for a Stronger Cybersecurity Posture

In the constantly evolving cybersecurity landscape, the convergence of IT and OT domains presents both opportunities and challenges for industrial organizations. Yokogawa's cloud-based IT/OT SOC service offers a comprehensive solution to address these challenges by providing integrated visibility, proactive security measures, and real-time monitoring. By adopting a converged IT/OT SOC, businesses can strengthen their cybersecurity posture, mitigate risks, and respond effectively to emerging threats.

Stay Ahead in the Cybersecurity Race

Safeguard your operations with Yokogawa's cutting-edge, cloud-based IT/OT SOC and stay ahead in the cybersecurity race. To learn more about how this service can enhance your organization's cybersecurity, visit our website or download our whitepaper.

Conclusion

The necessity of a Converged IT/OT SOC in strengthening cybersecurity for today's industrial landscape cannot be overstated. In an era where cyber threats are constantly evolving, businesses must take a proactive approach to protect their operations. By leveraging the advantages offered by Yokogawa's cloud-based IT/OT SOC service, organizations can effectively address the challenges associated with the convergence of IT and OT domains while benefiting from a comprehensive security solution.

Author: Sumitra Ranjan Sinha, Deputy Manager – Specialist: Enterprise Cyber Security 

  • Sumitra is a seasoned cyber security professional with an extensive background spanning 7+ years in Cyber Security, Digital Forensics, Incident Response, and Security Operations Center (SOC) management.

  • He possesses exceptional expertise in Incident Response and Security Operation Center management, as well as Digital Forensics for both IT and OT Cyber Security domains. His skill set includes advanced knowledge in threat intelligence, risk assessment, and utilization of cutting-edge security solutions.

  • Sumitra holds a Master of Technology (M.Tech) degree in Computer Science Engineering, specializing in Network Security.