Vulnerability Management

Presented by Frode Stensletten, Senior Manager or Torbjørn Martinussen, Senior Manager, both from Deloitte.

In the realm of cybersecurity, the distinction between Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) systems is not merely technical but foundational to crafting effective vulnerability management strategies. While both domains share the overarching goal of safeguarding digital assets, their operational imperatives necessitate distinct approaches. IT systems, traditionally focusing on data confidentiality, contrast with OT systems, where the emphasis is placed on ensuring safety, reliability, and uninterrupted operational continuity.

The process of managing vulnerabilities in IT can often be streamlined through regular software patching. However, applying the same methodology to OT can lead to operational disruptions, given the critical nature of these systems. This is further complicated by the increasing convergence of IT and OT, which, while beneficial in many respects, also broadens the attack surface and requires a comprehensive, integrated approach to security.

Moreover, OT systems often rely on third-party vendors for essential components and services. This introduces a complex layer of risk. The security practices of these vendors become a critical concern, as any lapses can open up vulnerabilities that attackers might exploit, potentially compromising the entire OT infrastructure.

Selecting an OT vulnerability management solution, therefore, demands a careful evaluation of these unique challenges. Essential criteria should include the solution’s capability to provide specialized focus on OT priorities, its adaptability to the nuanced landscape of IT-OT convergence, and the robustness of its approach to mitigating risks posed by third-party supply chains. Embracing these best practices is not just a matter of enhancing security but ensuring the resilience and continuity of critical operational processes.