Navigating the Compliance Maze: How to Choose Cybersecurity Products That Comply with OT Security Regulations

In today’s interconnected digital landscape, cybersecurity is no longer a mere afterthought—it’s a fundamental requirement for any organization, particularly those operating in critical infrastructure and industrial sectors like oil and gas, energy, food and beverage, manufacturing, and transportation. As Operational Technology (OT) systems increasingly face the internet and interconnect with IT networks, and as the supply chain widens and deepens, the need to secure operations against cyber threats has become paramount.

Growing OT Security Regulations

Governments and international bodies are rapidly creating and enacting security directives and regulations. Here is a small, but potent sample:

• The NIS2 Directive is the EU-wide legislation on cybersecurity that provides legal measures to boost the overall level of cybersecurity of essential and important entities in member states.
• IEC 62443 is a widely adopted international standard that establishes a comprehensive framework that specifies the security requirements for industrial automation and control systems.
• NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) provides guidelines and best practices for managing and reducing cybersecurity risk.
• More than 90% of the world’s cargo carrying tonnage is covered by the maritime classification design, construction and through-life compliance rules and standards set by the twelve Member Societies of IACS.
• North American Electric Reliability Corporation Critical Infrastructure Protection (NERC CIP) standards focus on the security of the North American electricity grid, spelling out requirements for the protection of critical infrastructure.
• North American Electric Reliability Corporation Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is essential for organizations working with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to enhance the security of their supply chains.

Compliance with OT Security Regulations

Ensuring compliance with OT security regulations can be a daunting task. The regulatory landscape is complex and ever-changing, with myriad and sometimes overlapping standards, frameworks, and guidelines to navigate. From NIST SP 800-82 to IEC 62443, organizations must not only understand the relevant requirements, but also choose cybersecurity solutions that align with them.

How can organizations effectively navigate this compliance maze and select cybersecurity products that meet their OT security needs? Here are ten key steps to consider:

1. Understand the Regulatory Landscape

Start by gaining a comprehensive understanding of the OT security regulations that apply to your industry. Identify the relevant directives, standards, frameworks, and guidelines, and familiarize yourself with their requirements.

2. Define Your Requirements

Conduct a thorough assessment of your organization’s OT security needs. Identify the specific security controls and capabilities required to meet regulatory requirements and protect your OT infrastructure.

3. Evaluate Cybersecurity Solutions/Products/Services

Once you have defined your requirements, evaluate the relevant cybersecurity solutions, products, and services that claim to address OT your security challenges. Look for offerings that provide comprehensive protection against cyber threats while also aligning with relevant regulations and standards.

4. Insist on Compliance Certifications

Check whether cybersecurity products have been independently certified or validated for compliance with OT security regulations. Certifications such as IEC 62443 certification can provide assurance that an offering meets industry-recognized security standards.

5. Assess Vendor Support and Expertise

Consider the vendor’s expertise in your industry and track record in supporting OT security initiatives. Look for vendors with a proven track record of delivering effective cybersecurity solutions for OT (not IT) environments.

6. Evaluate Integration Capabilities

Assess how cybersecurity products integrate with your existing OT systems and technologies. Look for products that seamlessly integrate with your OT infrastructure without causing disruptions to operations.

7. Consider Scalability and Flexibility

Choose cybersecurity products that can scale to meet the evolving needs of your organization and adapt to changes in regulatory requirements. Flexibility and scalability are key considerations, especially in dynamic OT environments.

8. Prioritize Usability and User Experience

Consider the usability and user experience of cybersecurity products, particularly in OT environments where operational efficiency is paramount. Choose products that are intuitive to use and minimize the burden on OT personnel.

9. Perform a Pilot Test

Before fully deploying any cybersecurity product, conduct pilot testing in a controlled environment to assess their effectiveness and compatibility with your OT infrastructure. Pilot testing allows you to identify any potential issues or challenges before full-scale deployment.

10. Stay Vigilant and Adapt

Cyber threats are constantly evolving, so it’s essential to stay vigilant and adapt your cybersecurity strategy accordingly. Keep on top of emerging threats, regulatory updates, and best practices in OT security to ensure ongoing compliance and protection.

See our ebook: What to Consider When Choosing an OT Security Solution for more helpful tips

Conclusion

By following these steps and choosing cybersecurity solutions that align with OT security regulations, organizations can navigate the compliance maze effectively while they enhance the resilience of their OT infrastructure against cyber threats. Remember: compliance is not a one-off effort but an ongoing commitment to safeguarding critical assets and operations in an increasingly interconnected, digital world.