IT, OT Convergence Causing Security Challenges

The convergence between information technology and operational technology around the Internet of Things is driving significant security challenges, Artes said. Cisco has seen some case studies of malware moving from IT networks to OT networks, which often control things like critical infrastructure. For example, he said a European automaker was hit by WannaCry targeting its IT systems, but because of connected IoT devices the malware spread and ultimately took down the company's production plant. This is particularly a challenge as 40 percent of IoT devices on corporate networks are either unknown or unmanaged, according to Artes.