High-impact and cost-effective strategies leading cyber security teams are deploying to protect Operational Technologies against sophisticated cyber threats

Synopsis: Boost Operational Technology Cyber Resilience at a Fraction of Cost.

Operational Technology (OT), industrial operations, and assets of critical importance to national security increasingly incorporate digital advancements to support business operations and enhance efficiency. The need for digital advancements within this environment has expanded the cyber threat landscape, which directly impacts national security, the availability of social amenities, and business operations. The simmering geopolitical tensions, increased exposure to the internet, and implications for broader civil life raise the stakes for OT cyber resilience.

This presentation explores the critical need for businesses to adapt their Operational Technology (OT) security strategy to combat emerging cyber threats while aligning with business objectives and compliance obligations. As industrial control environments become increasingly interconnected with Information Technology (IT) and Enterprise-wide processes, they face heightened security pressures and regulatory challenges, making developing a business-centric approach to OT security essential. At the same time, cyber security teams have to do more with less. Tightening budgetary screws demands that cyber security teams act with extreme frugality, maximising every dollar spent on cyber resilience.

The session will dive deep into the most plausible and high-impact OT threats and tightening regulatory pressures. Attendees will gain practical insight into high-impact strategies they can quickly deploy to safeguard OT without breaking the bank. Key focus areas include OT cyber risk management, compliance integration, and operational continuity. It will explore how organisations can measure the effectiveness of their OT security efforts and demonstrate the value of these measures in advancing broader business goals.

Cyber risks within the OT environment need to be managed differently from how they are managed in the traditional IT environment, as OT risks incorporate hazards and Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) factors. The presentation will explore the different approaches to risk management within these two unique environments and how to integrate both into the wider organisation's risk management initiatives.

We will also explore strategies to align security initiatives with business priorities, adopting a fit-for-purpose security framework and fostering cross-functional collaboration, will be explored.

Additionally, this session will provide real-world case studies to illustrate how leading organisations have successfully implemented business-driven OT security strategies to combat threats and ensure compliance.

The presentation will conclude with practical recommendations on measuring and delivering value from OT security investments, equipping attendees with actionable insights to apply within their own organisations.

Attendees will learn how to protect your OT environment while driving business value, gaining a holistic view of security beyond compliance to ensure long-term resilience and success.