OT Cybersecurity Risk-Based Prioritization and Governance
ScottMadden routinely supports program development and organizational design for OT cybersecurity governance in utility operational technology (OT) departments.
At a Glance
Cybersecurity Organizational Alignment
Established an OT cybersecurity governance framework and defined clear cybersecurity roles, improving accountability and alignment with enterprise security standards across RRE Generation
Framework for Risk Assessment
Developed and operationalized a standardized cybersecurity risk prioritization framework and vulnerability management approach, reducing reliance on manual processes and enabling more consistent cybersecurity prioritization
Clear Path to Cyber Maturity
Delivered a long-term cybersecurity roadmap and program plan, providing actionable milestones to support ongoing OT cybersecurity maturity and operational resilience
Challenge
A Large Generation Fleet’s internal OT Cybersecurity policy, based on the NIST framework, aimed to enhance enterprise-wide cybersecurity, with Regulated and Renewable Energy (RRE) Generation as the pilot program. However, RRE Generation faced inefficiencies due to unclear OT cybersecurity governance, undefined roles, and reliance on manual processes for vulnerability management and system security. These gaps resulted in inconsistent cybersecurity implementation and operational challenges. The project focused on establishing governance, clarifying responsibilities, formalizing a cybersecurity risk prioritization framework, and streamlining processes to strengthen RRE Generation’s cybersecurity posture.
Process
- Defined RRE OT cybersecurity roles and governance, aligning with IT Cybersecurity, IT Compliance, and enterprise security teams.
- Mapped enterprise governance models, clarifying oversight, decision-making, and accountability for cybersecurity functions.
- Developed a standardized risk ranking framework, aligning Generation facility cybersecurity priorities with Nuclear and Transmission.
- Established a sustainable vulnerability management process, reducing reliance on manual workflows.
- Created a roadmap and program plan, outlining key next steps for continued cybersecurity maturity.
Result
- Built an OT cybersecurity governance framework, ensuring alignment with enterprise cybersecurity standards.
- Operationalized IT502 controls, translating them into clear, actionable work activities.
- Assigned roles and responsibilities, improving accountability and efficiency.
- Developed a long-term program plan and roadmap, providing clear milestones and next steps for continued cybersecurity enhancements.
Related Insights
Cybersecurity Operational Technology Program Development
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A large electric and gas utility’s enterprise IT cybersecurity group initiated the IT-OT program to address the increasing threat of cyber attacks against OT found in the operating environment.
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ScottMadden supported the preparation and planning of a cybersecurity framework and effectively communicated with multiple stakeholder groups the benefits the business could expect to see.
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ScottMadden partnered with a large energy provider to align its security program with the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF).
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