Identification of Potential Operation Technology Cybersecurity Failures in Classic and Modern Industrial Control System

Rapid convergence of IT and OT has led a transformation in ICS, from classic-isolated system to modern, well-interconnected system. This convergence enhances operational efficiency yet introduces new threats and vulnerabilities in OT environment. IEC 62443 as one of international standards for OT cybersecurity plays pivotal roles in guiding OEMs and Users to secure their OT environment from cyberattacks. This paper highlights key potential failures including human factor errors, outdated systems and technologies, as well as improper cybersecurity processes. The analysis is conducted based on unique characteristics of classic and modern ICS. The potential failures found by this research are analyzed from real case study in OT environment with subject matter expert in OT cybersecurity that few papers had done previously. To address the identified failures, this study proposes mitigation strategies such as Network Segmentation, Secure Remote Access, and Enhanced Cybersecurity Training. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to strengthen OT cybersecurity by providing practical and best practice insights of potential failures faced in real-world OT environment.