What's Happening?
A report by Dragos highlights the growing challenges faced by operational technology (OT) teams in defending against industrial cybersecurity threats. The 2026 OT/ICS Year in Review reveals that adversaries are increasingly focusing on understanding physical
processes and control systems, moving beyond IT intrusions to operational disruptions. The report identifies 26 threat groups targeting OT environments, with new groups like AZURITE, PYROXENE, and SYLVANITE emerging in 2025. These groups are specializing in control-loop mapping and access pathways, posing significant risks to industrial operations.
Why It's Important?
The increasing sophistication of cyber threats to industrial systems underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures in critical infrastructure sectors. As adversaries gain a deeper understanding of control systems, the potential for operational disruptions and physical impacts grows, threatening the safety and reliability of essential services. The report highlights the importance of proactive cybersecurity strategies, including improved network visibility and monitoring, to protect against these evolving threats. Addressing these challenges is crucial for safeguarding industrial operations and maintaining public trust in critical infrastructure.
