More than 7 in 10 (71%) of surveyed facility managers consider OT cybersecurity a concern or worry yet only 44% currently have a cybersecurity solution in place today to protect their OT systems from potential threats.
According to a recent survey conducted by Honeywell, improving cybersecurity for operational technology (OT) systems ranks as one of the top priorities for surveyed facility managers over the next 12 to 18 months. This is likely because more than 7 in 10 (71%) of surveyed facility managers consider OT cybersecurity a concern or worry. Moreover, respondents cite OT cybersecurity as the building improvement that would provide the greatest benefit to their stakeholders.
This report, "Protecting Operational Technology in Facilities from Cyber Threats: Constraints and Realities," the third in Honeywell's 2021 Building Trends series, introduces the challenges, priorities and assessments of surveyed facility managers. The survey findings indicate that facility managers recognise the potential threat of an OT cyberattack and acknowledge the importance for building occupants.
Surprisingly, only 44% of respondents currently have a cybersecurity solution in place to protect their OT systems from potential threats. Furthermore, only one-third (33%) plan to invest in OT cybersecurity products over the next 12 to 18 months.
OT systems monitor, control and protect processes, equipment and operational environments. Within a building, assets such as HVAC, building management and security systems can all be entry points for bad actors if not properly protected.
The survey found that more than 1 in 4 surveyed facility managers (27%) have experienced a cyber breach of their OT systems in the last 12 months, and 66% of respondents view managing OT cybersecurity as one of their most difficult responsibilities.
COVID-19, among other drivers, has prompted many respondents to adjust their near-term priorities. A majority (56%) are currently more willing to invest in safety-focused solutions (including OT cybersecurity) than they were before the onset of the pandemic.
To view the full report, please visit Protecting Operational Technology in Facilities from Cyber Threats: Constraints and Realities.
Methodology
The Honeywell survey was conducted online by KRC Research (http://www.krcresearch.com/) among facility managers in three markets: United States, Germany and China.