What are the challenges of securing OT systems during mergers and acquisitions?

Securing Operational Technology (OT) systems during mergers and acquisitions can pose several challenges, such as:

1. Integration Complexity: Combining different OT systems from various organizations can be complex due to compatibility issues, varying protocols, and technologies.
2. Cybersecurity Risks: Merging OT systems can create new attack surfaces and vulnerabilities, increasing the risk of cybersecurity threats like breaches, ransomware, and data leaks.
3. Legacy Systems: Many OT systems in use may be outdated or unsupported, making them harder to secure and integrate while maintaining functionality.
4. Regulatory Compliance: Merging organizations need to ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards, which can be challenging when combining OT systems with varying compliance requirements.
5. Cultural Misalignment: Differences in security protocols, risk management approaches, and organizational culture can create resistance to standardization and compromise security measures.
6. Resource Allocation: Securing OT systems during mergers may require significant investments in technology, training, and manpower, which can strain resources and affect the overall integration process.

Successfully addressing these challenges requires careful planning, risk assessment, collaboration between IT and OT teams, and a comprehensive security strategy tailored to the specific needs of the merged organization.