Bridging the Cyber-Security Gap: Managing Vulnerabilities in OT/SCADA Systems

Unmasking the Cyber-Threats in OT/SCADA Systems: Managing Vulnerabilities Today and Tomorrow

Operational Technology (OT) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems present a unique and growing frontier in the vast cyber-security landscape. These systems control the industrial operations that fuel our modern world, from power grids to water treatment plants. However, they also offer potential points of vulnerability that cybercriminals can exploit.

Unmasking the Cyber-Threats in OT/SCADA Systems: Managing Vulnerabilities Today and Tomorrow

Understanding the OT/SCADA Vulnerabilities

Cyber risks are multiplied as these systems become integrated with traditional IT networks. OT/SCADA systems were initially designed to function in isolated environments, thus lacking built-in security features. This cyber-physical fusion exposes these systems to the same threats any connected IT network faces—malware, ransomware, phishing, and data breaches.

Everyday Tasks: Protecting Our Infrastructure

Cybersecurity teams must regularly perform security audits, risk assessments, and p…