Ransomware poses a unique danger to industrial and operational technology environments because successful attacks can halt essential services, endanger human safety, and cause environmental and economic damage. The growing frequency and sophistication of these attacks mean organizations must take proactive steps to reduce exposure. Key weaknesses include remote access points, unmanaged or outdated devices, and insufficient separation between IT and OT networks. Without controls in place, a single breach can rapidly spread across interconnected systems and cripple operations.

Reducing this risk requires a mix of technical and organizational measures. Strong network segmentation and least-privilege access can limit how far attackers move once inside. Regular, tested backups of both IT and OT systems ensure recovery is possible even if data is encrypted. Continuous monitoring of devices and connections, along with employee training on safe credential practices and phishing awareness, help prevent common entry points. External security assessments such as penetration tests identify vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them. Embedding these practices into daily operations creates a culture of cyber hygiene that makes organizations more resilient to ransomware threats.

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Source: https://gca.isa.org/blog/reducing-risk-exposure-to-ransomware-threats