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Thales Webinar Sheds Light on the Rising Threat to Operational Technology

The rise of the digital age had undoubtedly revolutionised the way we lived, worked, and connected. Yet, with every advancement, new challenges had surfaced. Among these was the escalating threat to Operational Technology (OT), an integral component of our modern world.

OT systems, responsible for monitoring and controlling devices, infrastructure, and processes, had long been the backbone of critical industries like manufacturing, transportation, energy, and utilities. These systems were the unsung heroes of our daily life, maintaining the flow of power, water, transportation, and goods essential to daily life. But as these systems became more interconnected and complex, they also became more vulnerable.

When OT gets hacked

Recalling the infamous cyber-attack on Ukraine's power grid in 2015, malicious hackers had plunged parts of its capital, Kyiv, into darkness. This incident wasn't just an isolated cyber-breach—it was a glaring demonstration of what happens when OT gets hacked. Real-world impacts, such as power outages, could be not only inconvenient but devastating, affecting thousands or even millions of individuals.

Addressing this very concern, Thales, a global leader in digital security, organized a comprehensive webinar titled "Is your OT system being silently hacked?" The event aimed to provide in-depth insights into the challenges and solutions for securing OT in today's rapidly evolving digital landscape. With a legacy of unparalleled security expertise that extended from civil sectors to being the trusted security partner of the world's military forces, Thales placed cyber security at its core.

The webinar, led by experts Morgan Hopkins, Operational Technology Engagement Lead, and Tom Westenberg, Global Product Line Architect for ICS/OT Security, had shed light on the reasons behind the rapid expansion of connected OT systems, uncovered the origins of OT threats, detailed common cybersecurity issues, and suggested priorities to bolster security measures.

Hopkins, who had spearheaded numerous engagements with critical infrastructure and industrial organisations around OT cybersecurity, shared his vast knowledge and experiences. Meanwhile, Westenberg, with a passion for helping clients grasp vulnerabilities in their OT/ICS systems, presented the best strategies to counteract potential threats.

Attendees gained a comprehensive understanding of the current OT threat landscape, received real-life examples and learnings from Thales' research and engagements, and discovered strategies and best practices to reinforce their security infrastructure.

In a world where hacking Industry could result in catastrophic repercussions, understanding and defending against OT vulnerabilities was paramount. The insights from Thales' best minds are now available to fortify your OT systems against future threats.

Watch the Recorded Webinar Now

Did you miss the live session? You can still immerse yourself in the knowledge shared by Thales experts on securing your OT systems. Access the recorded webinar to understand the current OT threat landscape and how to bolster your defences.

Equip yourself with the knowledge to safeguard your systems. Watch the recording now here.