Operational Technology Security

Aug. 20, 2025
Team uComply

Operational Technology (OT) includes systems that control physical processes and is widely used in both private and industrial environments, including critical infrastructure. With increasing OT-related security incidents, implementation of protective measures is needed more than ever.

OT Security

OT Security more important than ever

OT stands for Operational Technology and these are all systems and devices that control physical processes. We use (smart) equipment more and more, both in private and industrial environments. Think of the washing machine that you can run at the time you want or the robot vacuum cleaner that goes through the living room at fixed times. In business, OT is used for example; to run machines in factories, water treatment plants, traffic lights and bridge controls, loading and unloading in ports and warehouses.

Because OT is used in many places, and is deployed by organizations providing services or operating in critical infrastructure themselves, it is important to secure it. This is where the IEC 62443:2024 and the NIS2 provides guidance.

Risk profile - increase in OT-related incidents
In 2024, 47 OT-related incidents were recorded, of which 16% was an executive attack on OT functionality. The NCSC published a new threat assessment in February 2025 in which OT systems are increasingly a target of sabotage and hacktivism. Furthermore, there is a shift of multi-vector attacks (technical disruption combined with manipulation).
OT Security - what can you do as an organization?

As an organization, you can start with the following steps:

  • Inventory the OT systems you have;
  • Identify information security and cybersecurity risks
  • Take security measures
  • Seek collaboration with suppliers and other parties that are part of the supply chain

Guidelines - NIS2 and IEC 62443

Among other things, the NIS2 provides guidance on securing the OT systems in an organization. Examples include:

  • Conducting risk assessment (incl. supply chain);
  • Assets mapping and classification;
  • Reporting incidents
  • Continuity measures
  • Identify responsibilities regarding IT and OT.

 

NIS2 - Increased cybersecurity obligations.

The NIS2 directive expands the scope to more sectors and emphasizes:

    • Proactive risk management
    • Mandatory incident reports within 24 hours
    • Responsibility with management
    • Security of the entire supply chain 
The IEC 62443:2024 is a standard that focuses on security for industrial automation and control systems (IACS). This refers to systems and technologies used to automate and control industrial processes. Consider the following:
  • SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) systems.
  • PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers).
  • DCS (Distributed Control Systems).
  • Sensors, actuators and communication networks

IEC 62443:2024 explains six basic principles namely:
  • Generic: basic concepts, terminology and cybersecurity within IACS;
  • Policies and procedures: guidelines for organizations;
  • Systems: guidelines security of IACS systems;
  • Components: Technical requirements for components.
  • Profiles: Profiles for sectors
  • Evaluation methods: methods for testing, validation, etc.

Unique advantages of uComply for OT security

uComply.cloud offers a comprehensive set of services and tools that can help organizations improve their OT security. Here are some ways uComply.cloud can contribute:
  1. Comprehensive compliance management features: uComply.cloud provides a compliance app that is based on the Microsoft Dataverse and integrates with your Office applications. .uComply.cloud is not just a document repository; it is a complete compliance workflow tool. It provides features such as centralized controls and clauses, risk assessment modules, audit management, vendor reviews, incident logging and security scoring.

  2. Audits and Consultancy: uComply.cloud provides consulting services for conducting internal audits, attending or leading external audits, and supporting customer/supplier audits. This also includes providing content packs for various standards such as ISO, NEN, and SOCII.

  3. Integration with Microsoft 365: uComply.cloud is deeply integrated with the customer's Microsoft 365, meaning it works seamlessly within the customer's Microsoft environment. This allows companies to use their own environment and security measures and not rely on third parties or external hosting providers.

  4. Flexibility and ScalabilityBecause uComply.cloud is built on Azure and Dataverse, it can scale from small businesses to large enterprises. It is also customizable through the Power Platform, meaning customers can extend it to meet their specific needs.

  5. Local Support and Expertise: uComply.cloud also offers support and expertise in Dutch, which is a plus for Dutch organizations that prefer to communicate in their native language.

With increasing OT-related security incidents and evolving threats, it is increasingly important to identify OT assets, assess cybersecurity risks and implement protective measures. uComply helps with this. Want to know more? Let's Chat!

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