Meeting the unique needs of OT environments is a challenging task for traditional security operations centers (SOCs). As cyber threats increasingly target these critical systems, the need for specialized OT security has never been greater. But why are traditional SOCs not sufficiently aligned with OT? What makes OT security so special?

Working in detection and response is one of the most difficult jobs in the cybersecurity industry. Although the theories look good on paper, the reality in the workplace is different. It is a world full of uncertainty and ambiguity. The cybersecurity community has recognized over the years that OT security is a very different challenge that requires a new way of thinking. As threats become more sophisticated and increasingly target cyber-physical systems, it is becoming clear that OT security operations require innovation.

1. The challenge of converged IT and OT data

The misunderstanding between OT and IT security stems from the convergence of IT and OT systems in modern industrial environments. Centralizing all IT and OT alerts in a Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) system seems like a good idea. Most cyber attacks are directed against an IT component. While OT may not be the primary target, it can still suffer the consequences of an uncontrolled IT attack.

However, interpreting OT alerts presents a complex challenge that often results in alerts being missed or under-investigated. This is particularly the case with enterprise-level SOCs, including Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) and Managed Detection and Response (MDR) providers. Your number of daily alerts can reach thousands. This amount alone creates a strong tendency to minimize or ignore alerts, undermining the benefits of convergence. Ideally, SOCs should receive high-quality OT alerts and group different signals into valuable insights. This enables a better understanding of the interaction between IT and OT while enabling faster management of potential OT threats.

2. IT detections and an OT network sensor are not enough

The mountain of data that SecOps tools produce can be overwhelming for security analysts and threat/incident responders. Adding an OT network sensor to your stack isn’t just insufficient; it can also have a counterproductive effect. The additional data from these sensors can exceed the capacity of already overburdened teams. This makes it difficult for them to effectively contextualize and respond to alerts. Critical components such as technical workstations, wireless IoT protocols and process deviation monitoring remain underexposed. This leaves companies vulnerable to attacks on their cyber-physical systems.

The security of the OT environment must go beyond traditional IT detection and network sensors. By implementing comprehensive OT security measures, SOCs gain valuable insights, not just raw data. This can significantly improve the quality and effectiveness of their security measures and lead to advancements in their OT security strategies.

3. The crucial role of specialist staff

Most MSSPs and internal SOCs have a background in IT. Therefore, their tools, processes and technical expertise are based on IT principles. This can result in SOCs regularly pushing alerts to OT teams without further details. This makes it difficult to respond effectively to the specific needs of OT systems and infrastructure.

For OT engineers, the gap between IT and OT is wide. The requirements for availability, resilience and practicality are miles apart. The suppliers and products have to be incredibly specific. Without in-depth OT knowledge, it is impossible to interpret alerts, link them to relevant incidents and develop response plans. Professionals have the expertise and skills required for OT security. You will work closely with OT engineers to accurately interpret alerts and respond effectively to threats.

4. Bridging the gap between IT and OT

The unique challenges of detecting and responding to OT risks require comprehensive, tailored solutions. They differ from traditional SOCs because they smoothly navigate OT environments and understand the unique security requirements of industrial systems. From interpreting complex alarms to managing specialized workstations.

The right OT security solution helps SOCs filter out unnecessary noise and prioritize real insights. This reduces data overload, prevents misinterpretations of warnings and makes optimal use of specialist staff. This way, your OT environments are protected from evolving cyber threats.

This is a submitted post by SoterICS. You can find more information about their solutions here.