OT in transition: from an isolated system to a networked system
Traditionally, the OT world was sealed off. So-called “air-gapped” systems prevented any external access. But with the increasing integration of cloud services, IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) components and remote maintenance, new risks are emerging. Old systems, often decades old, are being networked even though they were never originally designed to be connected to the internet. This creates attack surfaces that cannot be covered one-to-one with traditional IT security concepts.
Typical weaknesses & challenges
In the OT environment, outdated operating systems, missing patches and proprietary protocols meet complex production requirements. Security updates often cannot be installed without interrupting production, which leads to important protective measures being neglected. In addition, many companies lack specially trained personnel who understand both the requirements of production and IT security. As a result, attackers often find OT an easy target. This attack vector is becoming increasingly popular.
New threats due to targeted attacks
The threat situation is intensifying: while IT systems used to be the main focus of attacks, cyberattacks are now specifically targeting industrial control systems and infrastructures. Examples such as Stuxnet, Triton or attacks on waterworks and energy suppliers show how real and dangerous these scenarios are. Such attacks can not only cause economic damage or reputational damage, but in extreme cases can also endanger entire operating bases, security of supply or human lives.
The role of IT security: indispensable today, standard tomorrow
IT security is increasingly becoming a basic requirement for operations in industry. Modern security concepts rely on the close integration of IT and OT, segmented networks, zero-trust architectures and continuous monitoring. Regulations such as the NIS2 directive are also forcing companies to systematically improve their security measures. In future, IT security will not just be reactive protection, but an integral part of production planning and operations.
Conclusion: no future-proof industry without IT security
The digitalization of industry offers enormous opportunities - but only if the security risks are mastered. OT security can no longer be an afterthought, but must be considered from the outset. Companies that invest in secure architectures, qualified personnel and holistic strategies now will create the basis for stable and resilient production systems. Because one thing is clear: without IT security, Industry 4.0 will become a threat rather than just an opportunity.
Our tip: IT AND OT security with DTS
Whenever the terms IT security or cybersecurity are mentioned, it should be clear: “It's best to ask DTS!”. Just as in our previous topic “Segmentation”, we are also taking a new approach to IT & OT security in order to do justice to the area entirely. In this context, we use different solutions and platforms, not as silos, but interlocking and optimally orchestrated by us to meet individual needs. The DTS Cockpit and our Secure Remote Access for OT deserve special mention here.
The second one enables genuine, secure zero trust (remote) access to isolated production environments. And the DTS Cockpit goes a significant step further with “OT Insights”. This extends the security operations success story to include the possibility of use in the industrial hall, i.e. holistic security for OT infrastructures. The special sensor technology now also creates complete transparency in this security-sensitive environment, detecting and reporting deviations and relevant events. This bridge brings the familiar DTS Cockpit unique selling points directly into production. Of course, the unification of the IT and OT worlds via the DTS Cockpit is designed especially for medium-sized companies, not “only” to raise them to a new level of security, but also with regard to regulations such as NIS2. With this, our big-picture portfolio and our strategic approach, we clearly differentiate ourselves from our market competitors - with features that clearly stand out from the market standard and innovations that are simply missing from other providers.
Secure Remote Access for OT