3 reasons why industrial cyberattacks are on the rise (and what you can do)

Digital transformation promises big rewards for industrial organizations. IoT in manufacturing has the capacity to cut costs. Artificial intelligence offers smart, interconnected systems. Enterprise connectivity integrates software and machinery from different manufacturers. Efficiency gains are everyone’s order of the day.?

But as digital progress accelerates, the convergence of IT and OT systems brings with it a rising tide of cybersecurity threats.?

According to recent studies, 61% of smart factories have experienced a cyber incident, with the average cost of a business ransomware attack exceeding $5.13 million. From phishing attacks that exploit human error to supply chain disruptions that take entire systems offline, cybercriminals are exploiting the increasing overlap between IT and OT environments. Here are the top three reasons organizations are becoming more vulnerable:?

1. Limiting cybersecurity to protection?

In today’s digitalized world, cyberattacks are, unfortunately, inevitable. With the integration of IT and OT systems, vulnerabilities multiply. While preventive measures like firewalls and intrusion detection systems are essential, they are just the first line of defense. Cybersecurity must also encompass proactive emergency response plans.??

A robust incident response plan is essential. It outlines the steps to identify, contain, eradicate, and recover from breaches. Regularly updating and testing this plan ensures that all stakeholders understand their roles during an incident. In an OT environment, time is of the essence. Swift reactions can prevent or minimize downtime, maintaining operational continuity.?

2. Old systems, new attack surfaces?

Converging analogue OT and digital IT systems presents a unique cybersecurity challenge. OT systems, often in use for decades, were built for reliability and operational efficiency, but not for connectivity or cybersecurity. When legacy OT systems are connected to IT networks, they can become easy targets for cybercriminals. The result is a larger attack surface, with more entry points for potential breaches.?

To mitigate these risks, a holistic, integrated security approach is critical. This includes embedding cybersecurity measures across the IT and OT lifecycle, using secure-by-design principles, and applying industry-specific solutions to address the complexity of these combined systems.?

3. The cost of convergence without culture?

One of the biggest barriers to securing IT and OT environments is not just technical—it's cultural. IT teams and OT operators have different priorities: IT focuses on confidentiality and data security, while OT prioritizes uptime and operational safety. Cybersecurity for converged environments requires collaboration between these traditionally siloed teams.?

A culture of cyber awareness and shared responsibility can make a real difference. Investing in training programs, incident response plans, and regular assessments of both IT and OT security can help organizations bridge the gap. Involving cybersecurity experts who understand both environments ensures that businesses are equipped to defend against evolving threats.?

Building a cyber-resilient future?

As IT and OT systems converge, the complexity of industrial cyberattacks increases. No company can guarantee 100% protection, but with a comprehensive strategy that covers detection, defense, and continuous improvement across both IT and OT systems, industrial organizations can build stronger cyber resilience. With the right mix of technology, culture, and expertise, businesses can confidently navigate the new cybersecurity landscape.?

Find out more about Siemens’ cybersecurity tools and how to strengthen your cyber resilience here?