Rockwell Automation, a leader in industrial automation, is making significant strides to improve industrial cybersecurity in response to the growing cyber threats faced by critical infrastructure systems. The recent cyberattack on the Colonial Pipeline highlighted the vulnerabilities of these systems, underscoring the urgent need for strong protection measures.
To bolster its cybersecurity approach, Rockwell Automation has acquired several cybersecurity companies that specialize in safeguarding industrial assets. One notable acquisition is Verve, a company that has developed a solution tailored to address operational technology challenges with IT-level security. By integrating the expertise and capabilities of these acquired companies, Rockwell Automation can now offer a wide range of cybersecurity solutions.
Bruno Lignon and Pierre Paterni, experts at Rockwell Automation, highlight the unique challenges posed by aging infrastructure and control systems in the industrial sector. Legacy systems often lack modern security features, making them susceptible to cyber threats. Recognizing this, Rockwell Automation aims to bridge the gap between operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT), strengthening cybersecurity through an integrated approach.
By incorporating Verve’s offering into its portfolio, Rockwell Automation allows the aggregation of data from various partner products and technologies. This unified interface provides organizations with a comprehensive view of the security landscape, enabling them to identify potential vulnerabilities and take proactive measures to protect their critical infrastructure.
Tessa Myers, Senior VP of Intelligent Devices at Rockwell Automation, highlights the manufacturing industry as a primary target for cyberattacks. While the adoption of smart technologies offers significant growth potential, many operations still rely on vulnerable legacy systems. Rockwell Automation recognizes the importance of securing these systems to ensure the safety and reliability of manufacturing processes.
To strengthen cybersecurity, Rockwell Automation emphasizes the importance of network inventory audits, asset identification, risk scoring, and vulnerability assessments. These measures enable organizations to gain a comprehensive understanding of the threats and risks present in their complex ecosystems. Verve’s non-intrusive active discovery system plays a vital role in assessing all assets, regardless of their manufacturer, without disrupting the production environment or affecting network performance.
Rockwell Automation is hosting its Automation Fair in Boston, where addressing escalating cyber threats will be a primary focus. This event brings together industry professionals to share insights, best practices, and innovative solutions to combat cyber threats head-on.
In line with industry standards, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires publicly traded companies to disclose cybersecurity incidents that materially affect shareholder value. This regulatory requirement underscores the importance of prioritizing cybersecurity and investing in strong protection measures.
Rockwell Automation’s commitment to strengthening industrial cybersecurity aligns with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) framework. This framework provides organizations with a roadmap to enhance their cybersecurity posture, ensuring the resilience and protection of critical infrastructure systems.
In our increasingly interconnected world, secure industrial systems are of utmost importance. Rockwell Automation’s proactive approach to cybersecurity, supported by strategic acquisitions and the integration of innovative solutions like Verve, demonstrates its unwavering commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure. By bridging the gap between OT and IT, Rockwell Automation aims to protect industrial systems, enabling organizations to adopt smart technologies while mitigating cyber risks.
In an ever-changing threat landscape, Rockwell Automation takes the lead, empowering industries to securely thrive in the digital age. With its wide range of cybersecurity solutions and dedication to staying ahead of emerging threats, Rockwell Automation ensures the continuity and availability of critical infrastructure systems.
