The Hidden Cost of IT/OT Disconnection – Why Most Integration Strategies Fail
Why Most IT/OT Cyber Security Strategies Are Already Outdated
Cyber attacks on industrial infrastructure have surged in recent years, yet most cyber security strategies are still built for an outdated IT/OT model.
- 57% of industrial organizations lack real-time visibility into OT security threats. (McKinsey & Co.)
- Ransomware attacks on OT systems increased by 300% in the past two years. (Cyber Security & Infrastructure Security Agency, CISA)
- More than 60% of IT/OT security breaches occur due to weak access controls in OT environments. (ARC Advisory Group)
The problem? Most organizations are applying traditional IT security models to OT environments. This approach is flawed and leaves companies vulnerable.
The Three Biggest Mistakes in IT/OT Cyber Security
1. Assuming IT Security Controls Can Be Applied to OT
- IT security focuses on data protection, firewalls, and endpoint security.
- OT security must prioritize system uptime, equipment integrity, and real-time access control.
- One-size-fits-all security does not work.
2. Lack of Real-Time OT Threat Monitoring
- Many organizations only audit OT security periodically rather than monitoring threats in real time.
- Industrial ransomware attacks often go undetected for weeks.
3. Overlooking the Human Factor
- Cyber criminals are increasingly targeting operations personnel through social engineering and phishing attacks.
- Security training must extend beyond IT teams—OT operators need to recognize cyber threats.
How to Modernize IT/OT Cyber Security for the Current Threat Landscape
1. Implement Role-Based Access Controls (RBAC) in OT Environments
- Ensure that only authorized personnel can access OT systems.
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for remote system access.
2. Deploy Continuous OT Network Monitoring
- Use real-time AI-driven security analytics to detect anomalies.
- Monitor SCADA and industrial control system (ICS) traffic for signs of compromise.
3. Build an Adaptive Security Framework for IT/OT
- Apply Zero Trust principles to both IT and OT environments.
- Implement segmented network zones to isolate critical operations from IT breaches.
Case Study: How Quebec Iron Ore Strengthened IT/OT Security
The Challenge:
- Remote access to OT systems was unsecured, increasing cyber risk.
- No real-time security visibility across multiple operational sites.
The Solution:
- Integrated real-time security monitoring across all IT/OT environments.
The Results:
- 60% reduction in security vulnerabilities within the first year.
- Faster detection and response to cyber threats.
- Full compliance with international security regulations.
Why IT/OT Security Needs to Be an Executive-Level Priority
IT/OT cyber security is no longer just an IT issue—it’s a business risk.
Cyber security risks in industrial environments are evolving faster than most organizations can keep up with. The increasing connectivity of IT and OT systems has expanded the attack surface, leaving many companies exposed to ransomware, operational sabotage, and compliance failures.
Join Dexcent for a live webinar where we’ll uncover the hidden vulnerabilities in IT/OT security and show you how to protect your operations from emerging cyber threats.
Date: April 16, 2025
Moderator: Andrew Capper, VP of Industrial Digital Transformation, Dexcent
Panelists: Andrew Nelson, President of AANelson Inc., Rajesh Rao, Data Management & Integration Consultant and Usama Al-Shiraida, Director of Digital Transformation Consulting & Services at Dexcent.
Key Takeaways:
- The most overlooked cyber security risks in IT/OT environments—and how to address them.
- How industrial leaders are implementing Zero Trust Security models to prevent attacks before they happen.
- A blueprint for securing IT/OT integration without compromising uptime or operational efficiency.
With cyber attacks on industrial systems increasing by 300% in the past two years, organizations can no longer afford to treat IT and OT security separately. This webinar will provide the insights you need to build a resilient, future-proof cyber security strategy.
