Secure by Operations: New Strategy Emerges for OT Cybersecurity
Widespread OT Security Breaches Revealed
A new global study exposes critical vulnerabilities in operational technology security. Commissioned by Schneider Electric and conducted by Forrester Consulting, the research surveyed 250 OT security decision-makers. Results show that 91% of organizations experienced at least one OT breach or failure within the past 18 months. These incidents caused significant service interruptions, revenue loss, and reputational damage despite existing security measures.
Growing Confidence Gap in OT Protection
The study reveals substantial concerns among security professionals. Approximately 70% of critical infrastructure security leaders expressed worry about their protection capabilities. Moreover, 60% doubted their ability to detect OT cyberattacks effectively. This confidence gap highlights urgent needs for improved security strategies.
Inadequate Security Practices Exposed
Current security approaches show significant shortcomings. The research identifies that 51% of organizations still rely on traditional IT practices to secure OT environments. Additionally, only 40% maintain 24/7 monitoring for OT cyber threats. These findings demonstrate critical gaps in industrial cybersecurity readiness.
Secure by Operations Gains Momentum
The study introduces “Secure by Operations” as an emerging best practice. This approach embeds cybersecurity directly into operational environments with continuous, proactive protection. Survey results indicate strong industry support for this methodology. Seventy-five percent of respondents believe this strategy will effectively mitigate future OT cyberattacks.
Measurable Benefits Demonstrated
Organizations adopting Secure by Operations principles report substantial improvements. They achieve up to 53% faster recovery times following security incidents. Additionally, they reduce capital expenditure by 51%. Nearly half of respondents anticipate gains in operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and company reputation.
Expert Perspective on Findings
Jay Abdallah, President of Cybersecurity Solutions at Schneider Electric, emphasized the urgency: “Modern cyber incidents extend beyond technical interruptions. They erode trust, disrupt operations, and threaten financial stability. Organizations must combine internal capabilities with external partnerships featuring operationally aware expertise.”
Industry Implications and Recommendations
From my analysis of industrial cybersecurity trends, this study validates the critical need for OT-specific security approaches. The high breach rate despite existing measures suggests that traditional IT security methods prove insufficient for operational technology environments. Managed security service providers offer viable solutions for organizations lacking specialized OT security resources.
The integration of Secure by Design principles with Secure by Operations practices represents the future of industrial cybersecurity. This combined approach ensures protection throughout the technology lifecycle, from initial implementation through ongoing operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Secure by Operations” approach?
It involves embedding cybersecurity directly into operational environments with continuous, proactive protection throughout the technology lifecycle.
How widespread are OT security breaches?
The study shows 91% of critical infrastructure organizations experienced at least one OT breach in the past 18 months.
What benefits does this approach deliver?
Organizations report up to 53% faster recovery times and 51% reduction in capital expenditure.
Why are traditional IT security methods insufficient?
OT environments have different requirements and risk profiles than standard IT systems, needing specialized security approaches.
What percentage of organizations support this strategy?
75% of critical infrastructure security decision-makers endorse Secure by Operations principles for mitigating future attacks.
About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric is a global industrial technology leader providing expertise in electrification, automation, and digitalization. The company delivers integrated Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software, and services. With 150,000 employees and partners in over 100 countries, Schneider Electric focuses on sustainability and efficiency across smart industries, infrastructure, data centers, and buildings.
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