Cyber-Physical Systems Are Expanding the Attack Surface for Critical Infrastructure

As organizations continue connecting operational technology to digital networks, cyber-physical systems (CPS) are becoming both more capable and more vulnerable. In an exclusive interview with International Security Journal, Andrew Lintell, General Manager of EMEA at Claroty, explains why the growing convergence of IT and operational technology (OT) is creating new cybersecurity challenges for operators of critical infrastructure.

According to Lintell, industries such as energy, manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and water utilities have rapidly adopted connected technologies to improve efficiency and visibility. While these advances deliver significant operational benefits, they also expose systems that were never originally designed to face internet-connected threats. As a result, many organizations now have a much larger attack surface than they realize.

One of the biggest concerns is the convergence of IT and OT environments. Historically, operational technology networks were isolated from traditional business systems, providing a degree of protection through separation. Today, however, increased connectivity between these environments has improved data sharing and automation while simultaneously creating additional pathways for cyberattacks. Threat actors are increasingly targeting these interconnected systems because successful compromises can disrupt physical operations—not just digital services.

Lintell emphasizes that protecting cyber-physical systems requires a different approach than traditional IT security. Organizations must first gain complete visibility into the devices operating within their environments, many of which are unmanaged or poorly documented. Without an accurate inventory of connected assets, security teams cannot effectively identify vulnerabilities or prioritize the systems that present the greatest operational risk.

Source: This article is based on an interview originally published by International Security Journal, featuring Andrew Lintell, General Manager of EMEA at Claroty. Read the original article here: https://internationalsecurityjournal.com/critical-infra-cps-security/