The Australian Signals Directorate’s Australian Cyber Security Centre, in collaboration with CISA, the FBI, the NSA, and international partners, has released a comprehensive guide focused on the principles of operational technology (OT) cybersecurity. This guidance is crucial for critical infrastructure organizations that rely on OT systems, as it provides essential information on creating and maintaining secure environments. The guide emphasizes the importance of understanding the risks associated with business decisions that may inadvertently compromise OT cybersecurity, enabling organizations to make informed choices that bolster their overall security posture.
The document outlines six fundamental principles designed to assist organizations in recognizing how their operational decisions impact the cybersecurity of their OT systems. These principles serve as a framework for organizations to filter their decision-making processes, ensuring that security considerations are integrated into business strategies. By adhering to these principles, organizations can better manage risks and enhance their ability to maintain a safe operational environment, ultimately contributing to improved business continuity.
CISA urges critical infrastructure organizations to thoroughly review the best practices outlined in the guide and implement the recommended actions. By doing so, these organizations can establish the necessary cybersecurity controls to mitigate residual risks associated with their OT systems. The guide is particularly timely, given the increasing sophistication of cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure and the need for robust security measures to protect essential services.
For further insights into OT cybersecurity, organizations are encouraged to explore additional resources such as the Industrial Control Systems page and the Joint Cybersecurity Advisory. These resources provide immediate actions to reduce vulnerabilities across operational technologies and control systems, equipping critical infrastructure organizations with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively manage and enhance their OT cybersecurity efforts. The collaboration among international cybersecurity agencies highlights the shared commitment to securing critical infrastructure against evolving cyber threats.
