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(Podcast) Defend Your Time: Insights on OT Security with Dean Ellerby

“Defend Your Time” is the podcast dedicated to helping security leaders get more out of their Microsoft security investments. Listen and subscribe through Spotify or Apple Podcasts

In this episode, Microsoft MVP Dean Ellerby discusses the state of OT Security, covering common risks and sharing best practices for security and IT leaders to get ahead of OT-related risks. 

Talk to us today to learn more about how Ontinue can help you protect your OT environment through Microsoft Defender for IoT.

Understanding OT Security

Dean kicks off the conversation by defining OT security. Unlike IT security, which focuses on protecting data and systems, OT security is about safeguarding the systems and devices that control physical processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, transportation, and healthcare. These systems include programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and other machinery that require precise control to function correctly.

The Current State of OT Security

OT security is evolving but still lags behind IT security. One of the main challenges is the prevalence of legacy systems in OT environments. These systems often lack the capability for regular updates and may require extended downtime for maintenance, which is not feasible in many industrial settings. Additionally, there is often a disconnect between IT and OT teams, with each assuming the other is responsible for security.

Why OT Security Matters

The importance of OT security cannot be overstated. Dean explains that OT systems are integral to various industries beyond manufacturing, including energy, transportation, and healthcare. A breach in these systems can have severe consequences, from disrupting critical infrastructure to endangering lives. Notable examples include the Stuxnet attack on Iranian nuclear facilities and the Ukrainian power grid attack, both of which underscore the potential for physical harm from cyberattacks on OT systems.

Common Threats and Risks

Dean discusses the types of threats that OT systems face, including sophisticated cyberattacks, espionage, and ransomware. He emphasizes that while nation-state attacks are a significant concern, opportunistic ransomware attacks also pose a substantial risk. These attacks can target specific OT systems, causing operational disruptions and financial losses.

Best Practices for OT Security

To address these challenges, Dean recommends several best practices for IT and security leaders:

  1. Develop an OT-Specific Security Strategy: Recognize that OT security requires a different approach than IT security. Focus on the availability, safety, and reliability of OT systems.
  2. Enhance Visibility: Gain insights into the security threats within your OT environment. Use OT-specific security solutions like Microsoft Defender for IoT to monitor network traffic and detect anomalies.
  3. Integrate IT and OT Security: Ensure that your security team understands OT systems and can respond appropriately to OT-specific alerts. Collaboration between IT and OT teams is crucial for effective security management.
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