Executive Summary
- A 2025 survey by the SANS Institute reports a significant rise in cybersecurity incidents affecting Operational Technology (OT) systems.
- Ransomware attacks are identified as a primary driver behind the increase in security breaches within industrial environments.
- The growing use of remote access for OT systems has introduced significant new vulnerabilities, according to the report.
- The findings highlight an urgent need for enhanced security protocols and training to protect critical infrastructure.
A new survey from the SANS Institute for 2025 indicates a significant increase in cybersecurity incidents impacting Operational Technology (OT) systems, primarily driven by a rise in ransomware attacks and vulnerabilities associated with remote access. The findings highlight a growing threat landscape for critical infrastructure and industrial control systems.
Key Drivers of Incidents
According to the report, the convergence of Information Technology (IT) and OT networks has expanded the attack surface for industrial environments. Cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging sophisticated ransomware to target OT systems, aiming to disrupt operations for financial gain. The survey points to these attacks as a leading cause of reported security breaches over the past year.
The report also identifies the growing reliance on remote access as a major risk factor. While necessary for modern operations and maintenance, insecure remote access protocols provide a direct pathway for intruders to penetrate sensitive OT networks. Many organizations have not adequately secured these connections, leaving critical systems exposed.
Call for Enhanced Security
The SANS Institute’s findings serve as a critical warning for industries reliant on OT, including manufacturing, energy, and utilities. The survey underscores the urgent need for organizations to implement more robust cybersecurity measures, such as network segmentation, continuous monitoring, and specialized security training for OT personnel, to defend against these escalating threats.