OT (Operational Technology) refers to the hardware and software systems that monitor and control physical processes and devices in industrial environments. This includes things like:

• Industrial Control Systems (ICS): Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and other systems used to automate industrial processes.

• Manufacturing and Production Equipment: Machines, robots, assembly lines, and other equipment used in manufacturing.

• Critical Infrastructure: Systems that control essential services like power grids, water treatment plants, and transportation systems.

Cybersecurity Concerns for OT

OT systems were traditionally isolated from IT networks, but increasing connectivity has exposed them to cyber threats. This creates unique cybersecurity challenges:

• Safety Impacts: Attacks on OT systems can have real-world consequences, potentially causing physical damage, disruptions to critical services, or even injuries.

• Legacy Systems: Many OT systems rely on legacy technologies with known vulnerabilities and limited security features.

• Real-time Requirements: Security measures must not interfere with the real-time operation of OT systems, which can be critical for safety and efficiency.

• Convergence with IT: The increasing convergence of OT and IT networks blurs the lines between traditional security domains and creates new challenges.

Best Practices for OT Cybersecurity

• Network Segmentation: Isolate OT networks from IT networks and segment critical OT systems to limit the impact of breaches.

• Secure Remote Access: Implement strong authentication and access controls for remote access to OT systems.

• Regular Updates and Patching: Keep OT software and firmware up to date to address known vulnerabilities.

• Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems: Deploy specialized IDPS solutions for OT environments to detect and prevent malicious activity.

• Security Awareness Training: Educate personnel about cybersecurity best practices and threats specific to OT environments.

How ThreatNG Can Help

While ThreatNG is primarily focused on external attack surface management, it can still play a valuable role in OT cybersecurity by:

1. Identifying Connected OT Devices: ThreatNG can discover OT devices connected to the internet or external networks, highlighting potential entry points for attackers. 

2. Assessing External-Facing Components: ThreatNG can determine the security posture of external-facing components of OT systems, such as web interfaces or remote access portals. 

3. Detecting Exposed Credentials: ThreatNG's Sensitive Code Exposure and Dark Web Presence modules can identify exposed credentials or mentions of OT systems on the dark web, alerting organizations to potential compromises.

4. Working with Complementary Solutions: ThreatNG can integrate with OT-specific security tools, such as intrusion detection systems and vulnerability scanners, to provide a more comprehensive security solution.

Example:

ThreatNG identifies an externally exposed web interface for a SCADA system with a known vulnerability. It then alerts the organization to immediately patch the vulnerability or restrict access to the interface.

By incorporating ThreatNG into a broader OT cybersecurity strategy, organizations can gain valuable insights into their external attack surface and proactively address potential risks.