The utilities sector is under attack. As we noted in our last post, cyberattacks against utilities have increased sharply over the past two years and show no signs of abating. Because they are a critical infrastructure sector, utilities must take steps to protect vital assets through advanced physical and cybersecurity measures.
However, many utilities lack the in-house expertise needed to fully protect their systems. The persistent security skills gap makes it difficult to find qualified personnel, and utilities often lack the budgets to pay the salaries these professionals demand. At the same time, IT and operational technology (OT) environments are increasingly complex, requiring advanced skills and the latest security tools.
Utilities can close these gaps by partnering with a managed security services provider (MSSP). A qualified MSSP has a team of experienced and certified security professionals who stay abreast of the latest threats. Utilities gain access to this expertise along with an array of solutions and services that greatly reduce cyber risk.
Enhanced Threat Detection and Response
MSSPs provide enhanced threat detection through continuous monitoring of the IT environment. Behavioral analytics are used to establish baselines for “normal” network traffic, enabling AI-powered tools to detect anomalies and unusual activity in real time. These tools then prioritize the most critical threats for review by human analysts.
Recognizing that you can’t protect what you can’t see, MSSPs use automated tools to maintain a real-time inventory of all Internet-facing systems and IoT devices. Qualified MSSPs can also monitor and protect OT and industrial control systems, which have unique requirements. IT and OT security monitoring are integrated into a single dashboard to minimize blind spots.
If a security incident occurs, the MSSP will respond rapidly, either independently or in concert with the utility’s in-house team. Qualified MSSPs have robust, tested incident response plans and playbooks to ensure that they are prepared for an effective response and fast recovery from an attack.
Protecting Systems and Data
Qualified MSSPs identify and help manage system vulnerabilities, reducing the attack surface before threats can exploit them. They also integrate industry threat intelligence to proactively defend against emerging threats and sophisticated attackers, including state-sponsored groups targeting critical infrastructure.
By partnering with an MSSP, utilities gain access to advanced security tools without high upfront investments. In many cases, the cost of these tools is bundled into the monthly fee. Because most attacks begin with phishing or user error, many MSSPs also offer regular, simulated attack training and cybersecurity awareness programs to help employees recognize and avoid threats.
Managed backup services ensure that data is protected to enable rapid recovery from ransomware without paying attackers. Because ransomware often targets backups, MSSPs will help maintain immutable, offline or air-gapped backups of critical systems. They also have procedures for restoring data quickly to minimize downtime and disruption.
Financial and Operational Benefits
Although every utility can benefit from these services, many also have unique requirements. Qualified MSSPs will conduct a thorough review of the IT and OT environments to determine what security tools are in place and identify gaps and vulnerabilities. They will then develop a customized plan that precisely meets each utility’s needs.
MSSPs also recognize that many utilities have tight budgets. They make high-end cybersecurity affordable while allowing utility staff to focus on maintaining essential operations and optimizing customer service. MSSP services can also scale with the utility’s needs, providing adaptable protection against evolving threats.
Cerium delivers a comprehensive suite of managed security services backed by our proven methodologies, deep expertise and strong vendor relationships. We also have a long track record of success supporting customers in the utilities sector. Our team can assess your environment and develop a plan that prioritizes the most serious threats to your operations. Contact one of our experts to schedule a confidential consultation.
