Industrial Systems Increasingly Vulnerable to Cyber Attacks, Requiring Enhanced Cybersecurity
Industrial systems are becoming increasingly vulnerable to cyber attacks, necessitating greater attention to their cybersecurity. This was highlighted by Ali Laribi, founder of Fortress Plus and IT/OT cybersecurity consultant, during a seminar organized by the Tunisian-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCITF) under the theme "Cybersecurity: Understanding Risks and Acting on New Challenges."
In his intervention, Ali Laribi began by clarifying the essential distinction between OT (Operational Technology) and IT (Information Technology). According to him, priorities differ between the two domains: "For IT, we talk about confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information, depending on the company's activities. On the other hand, OT focuses more on availability, integrity, and human safety, as the impact on human life is paramount."
He also highlighted a common misconception among many professionals: the idea that industrial systems, often considered unconnected, would be immune to cyber threats. Ali affirmed that this vision is outdated, emphasizing that "systems are increasingly connected in the context of Industry 4.0, and the convergence between IT and OT leads to significant vulnerabilities."
Laribi continued by explaining that modern cyber attacks no longer come only from isolated hackers, but often from organized groups or even states. He also mentioned the lack of adequate regulatory frameworks to protect critical infrastructures.
To illustrate his point, Ali Laribi cited recent examples of attacks with disastrous consequences. Companies like Saint-Gobain and Merck have suffered significant financial losses due to cyber attacks, and these incidents highlight the importance of a proactive approach to cybersecurity.
Finally, he concluded by emphasizing the essential role of top management engagement in corporate cybersecurity. "It is essential to invest equally between processes and technology. Cybersecurity should not be considered a simple technological issue, but a global challenge that requires appropriate governance and a well-defined strategy," he recommended.
