This blog explores the security risks inherent with IoT/OT and concludes adoption is critical even with the security challenges. In addition, it provides a link to a collaborative report from Microsoft and the Ponemon Institute highligting data on the state of IoT and OT security from a customer's perspective. Read the blog for a review of the research and quantified findings.
The adoption of IoT and OT is viewed as essential for future business success, with 68% of respondents indicating that senior management sees these technologies as vital for supporting innovation and strategic goals. Despite security concerns, only a small minority of organizations have slowed or halted their IoT and OT projects, highlighting the priority placed on advancing these initiatives.
Security Risks of IoT and OT
Recent research indicates significant security risks associated with IoT and OT devices, with 55% of respondents believing these devices are not designed with security in mind. Additionally, 60% of respondents consider IoT and OT security to be among the least secured aspects of their infrastructure, and 39% reported experiencing cyber incidents targeting these devices in the past two years.
Organizations struggle with visibility into their IoT and OT devices, with only 29% reporting a complete inventory of these devices. Furthermore, 42% lack the ability to detect vulnerabilities, and 61% have low confidence in identifying compromised devices. This lack of visibility complicates the ability to respond effectively to security incidents.