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OT (Operational Technology)
Security Assessment

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What is OT security?

While IT (Information Technology) refers to the systems and technologies that handle information, OT (Operational Technology) refers to the systems and technologies that control and operate devices in places like factories, plants, and buildings.

The networks that connect these OT systems are called OT networks.

In recent times, cyberattacks on OT systems and networks have increased, making cybersecurity measures essential in the OT domain as well.

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Growing security risks due to changes in the OT environment

The OT environment is in a period of transition as open and standardized technologies are being introduced to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and create new added value. As a result of this shift, OT environments have become more susceptible to the impact and risks of vulnerabilities than they were previously.

  Past Present/Future
Standardization of devices
  1. Dedicated OS
  2. Serial data transmission, Dedicated communication protocols
  1. General-purpose OS (Windows, Linux, etc.)
  2. General-purpose communication protocols　(Ethernet, TCP/IP)
Networking & Connectivity
  • Standalone or isolated network environment
  • Implementing an air gap
  • On-site monitoring and operation
  • Connected to IT networks
  • Integration with external systems and the cloud
  • Remote monitoring and control

Importance of a current security assessment on OT environment

To advance security measures in an OT environment, the first step is to understand the current state of your environment, identifying what's already in place and what's missing, as well as where potential risks lie.

For this reason, it is highly effective to begin by conducting a security assessment.

However, a security assessment must be conducted by taking into account the unique characteristics of OT environments, as described in the following section.

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IT vs. OT

The approach to security in OT is fundamentally different from that in IT.

While confidentiality is often prioritized in the IT world due to its handling of sensitive data like financial assets and personal information, availability is the top priority in OT. It is essential for them to operate continuously without disruption.

Another critical factor is safety. OT professionals have focused on safety for decades, so any security measures must not overlook availability and safety.

Based on standard security principles, the best practice would be to update device operating systems and install antivirus software, just as you would in IT. However, this is often difficult in practice. Therefore, it is necessary to take a multi-layered approach with effective security measures to control risk.

For these reasons, OT requires a different approach than IT; any security measures for control systems (OT) must be implemented in a way that considers their unique characteristics without compromising safety or availability.

  IT OT
Priority
  1. Confidentiality
  2. Integrity
  3. Availability
  1. Safety
  2. Availability
  3. Integrity
  4. Confidentiality
Key objects of interest
  • Information & Data
  • Assets, Facilities and Products
  • Operational process
System refresh cycle
  • 3-5 years
  • 10-20 years
The entity responsible for system operation and management
  • IT Team
  • Operations Team

NRI Secure’s Strengths

With our knowledge in OT security area, we can help you respond efficiently.
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1

Deep knowledge of OT environments and security

Our consultants, who possess a deep understanding of the on-site realities in factories and plants, will assist you. We have a proven track record of providing support for OT environments across a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, steel, electric power, gas, and petrochemicals.

2

A Holistic and Robust Security Framework

By using evaluation criteria compiled from a consolidation of various security guidelines such as NIST CSF, NIST IR7628, IEC62443-2-1, it is possible to achieve objective and comprehensive visibility into the current situation with minimal engagements on your organization’s facilities and teams.

3

Proposal and Implementation Support for Mid- to Long-Term Plans

An assessment not only provides visibility into the current state of your OT security but also allows for the prioritization of countermeasures based on the criticality of identified risks and the development of a mid- to long-term roadmap.

Furthermore, beyond a temporary assessment, continuous support can be provided to assist with the implementation and promotion of the plan based on that roadmap.

Our Process

At NRI Secure, identifying and closing security gaps is essential to safeguarding your organization against evolving threats. Our Security Gap Analysis service uncovers vulnerabilities and provides a clear security roadmap, organized into three key phases.

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Phase 1: Assessing Current Challenges

We start by thoroughly evaluating the security landscape to identify key challenges and requirements.

Phase 2: Visualizing Security Risks

Through comparative analysis, we prioritize security controls and benchmark them against industry standards to clearly highlight potential risks.

Phase 3: Roadmap Development and Briefing

We then deliver a comprehensive roadmap and detailed briefing, providing actionable insights and outlining strategic next steps.

With this comprehensive analysis, organizations can confidently address security weaknesses and strengthen defenses. Let’s collaborate to turn insights into action.