Priya Patel
TLDR: The UK energy sector faces an expanding OT threat landscape
Key Points:
- The UK energy sector is facing an increasing number of cyberattacks, making it the most attacked country in Europe.
- Ransomware is a top threat to critical infrastructure in the UK, with OT systems being particularly vulnerable.
In the article, Sue Poremba discusses how the energy industry in the UK is a prime target for threat actors due to the complex systems and reliance on legacy OT systems. The article highlights the changing threat landscape, with ransomware being a top concern for critical infrastructure. The war in Ukraine has also heightened the risk to the UK’s energy industry, with state-related threat actors posing a significant threat.
The UK’s energy sector houses several major global energy companies, making it a high-value target for cyberattacks. The article stresses the importance of prioritizing cybersecurity across critical systems, implementing zero trust frameworks, and monitoring for leaked credentials on the dark web. The challenges posed by OT systems, such as legacy infrastructure and software vulnerabilities, are also discussed.
In conclusion, the article emphasizes the need for the energy industry to remain vigilant against cyber threats, especially as the global outlook remains uncertain. With nation-state actors targeting critical infrastructure, the UK’s energy sector must prioritize cybersecurity to avoid potential disruptions and ensure the continuity of operations.
