A coalition of cybersecurity agencies from multiple countries has published a joint guidance document that defines principles for the secure integration of artificial intelligence into operational technology environments used in critical infrastructure sectors. The document acknowledges that while AI can enhance operational efficiency, decision-making, and productivity in systems such as energy grids, water utilities, and manufacturing controls, it also introduces novel risks to safety, reliability, and cybersecurity that differ from traditional IT environments. Operators are advised to understand the unique characteristics of AI technologies in OT, assess the business case and data security implications of AI adoption, and ensure thorough governance and assurance frameworks are in place before deployment.

Key principles emphasize that critical infrastructure must embed safety and security best practices into AI and AI-enabled OT systems, maintain continuous oversight and validation of models, and integrate these considerations into incident response planning. The guidance further encourages human oversight of AI actions, robust access control, secure data handling, and ongoing monitoring to detect anomalies or deviations in AI behavior. By framing AI integration within structured risk-aware frameworks tailored to OT, the agencies aim to mitigate potential vulnerabilities that could affect physical processes and critical services controlled by these systems.

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Source: https://www.securityweek.com/global-cyber-agencies-issue-ai-security-guidance-for-critical-infrastructure-ot/