High-security government facilities rely on both their operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) systems to run smoothly. These systems manage everything from the temperature of meeting rooms to safeguarding critical data. OT systems manage physical processes, such as thermostats and lighting, while IT systems handle data and communications.
Now, you can connect these two systems through security system integration. This synchronization can allow information to flow seamlessly between the various security systems, improving your threat detection and mitigation and increasing the safety of your assets.
However, it’s important to know the risks of defective integration, which can expose vulnerabilities in OT and IT systems and threaten physical security and sensitive data. The stakes are high when you’re responsible for safeguarding people, sensitive data, and critical infrastructure. Before you integrate your systems, understand the potential risks and how to mitigate them.
Risks in Security System Integration
Here are some of the pitfalls or challenges you can expect from faulty OT-IT security system integration.
Inconsistent and Diminished Results
Integrating OT and IT systems is not guaranteed to deliver the seamless operation that is possible. Without careful planning and testing, system performance can be inconsistent, leading to delays or failures at critical moments.
Increased Exposure
OT systems were traditionally “air-gapped” from external networks. Because they weren’t connected to the internet, they were relatively secure from outside threats. However, integrating OT systems with IT networks exposes them to cyber threats like malware, ransomware, and unauthorized access. Every new connection increases the potential “attack surface,” creating more entry points for potential attackers.
Confusion During Threats
Integrating systems from different manufacturers can introduce compatibility issues. For example, combining an access control system with video surveillance from different providers could result in lags or missed alarms. In an urgent situation, delays in video transmission or alarm synchronization could lead to confusion or misinterpretation of the problem, increasing the likelihood of a successful security breach.
Legacy System Vulnerabilities
Many OT systems were installed before cybersecurity became a significant concern for government facilities. Because of this, many legacy systems lack the necessary modern precautions, such as encryption, secure authentication, and software updates. Integrating legacy systems with IT systems can expose vulnerabilities and weaken security.
Conflicting Priorities
OT and IT systems operate with different priorities. OT systems prioritize uptime and reliability because downtime can disrupt critical operations and lead to physical damage. IT systems, on the other hand, focus on data security and confidentiality. Different goals can create conflicts in how the systems operate and gaps in the security infrastructure.
Complexity of Systems
OT and IT systems are fundamentally different, and integrating them is incredibly complex. The risk of misconfiguring them, encountering compatibility issues, and causing operational inefficiencies and security vulnerabilities is high. Managing the complex integrating process requires specialized expertise that may not be available in-house.
Compliance Challenges
Government facilities are subject to strict regulatory frameworks, including NIST, FIPS, and FedRAMP standards. Compliance can be challenging and is further complicated when integrating two systems. Interconnected systems must meet all security and operational requirements.
Insider Threats
Threats don’t always come from the outside. Employees or contractors with access to integrated OT-IT systems pose a risk, too. That risk may be accidental or intentional, but their actions could exploit vulnerabilities in an integrated security network.
How to Mitigate the Risks of Integration
The risks of security system integration are significant. However, integrating these systems can be extremely valuable when performed by the right people with the necessary expertise. Here are some of the best practices high-security facilities should follow to achieve optimal security:
Start With a Risk Assessment
Assess the vulnerabilities of both the OT and IT systems, identifying the weak points, potential vulnerabilities, and the assets that will need additional protection.
Plan and Test Thoroughly
Seamless security system integration requires understanding how systems from different providers interact. For example, access control systems like badge readers should communicate flawlessly with video surveillance systems to ensure real-time monitoring. These integrations should be tested and optimized so that all the systems communicate with each other without delays or errors.
Implement Advanced Security Protocols
To strengthen security, use multi-factor authentication, encryption, and software updates. Update or patch all legacy systems through routine maintenance.
Run Security Networks Independently
Wherever possible, keep the security network independent from the larger IT network. While some information can (and should) be shared between the two, isolating the security network minimizes vulnerabilities and ensures broader IT issues do not compromise critical systems.
Use Monitoring and Detection Tools
Intrusion detection systems and security information and event management (SIEM) tools can monitor network activity on OT and IT systems. They can detect unusual events and alert security teams immediately. Advanced systems can use behavior detection tools, too. For example, if a vehicle approaches a secure facility, the system can read the license plate, analyze movement patterns, and flag unusual activity. These systems can identify potential threats, including insider threats, before they escalate.
Train Personnel
Employees and contractors should undergo regular training on the latest and best security practices. Awareness of phishing attacks, secure login protocols, and proper system use can reduce insider threats.
Partner With Security Experts
Integrating these systems is complex and absolutely essential to get right. An experienced and proven security system integrator can support you through the process by designing and implementing a security integration strategy tailored to your facility’s needs.
Ensure Reliable Security System Integration With Ariel
Our expertise at Ariel Secure Technologies allows us to design, implement, and maintain reliable integrated solutions for high-security environments. From risk assessments and system design to ongoing maintenance and training, Ariel provides end-to-end solutions that safeguard critical infrastructure and sensitive data. Through our detailed approach, we ensure your systems operate efficiently and mitigate vulnerability, providing you with the highest confidence in your facility’s safety.
Contact Ariel today to discuss how we can help safeguard your facility with the right security system integration solutions.
