Cyberattacks are on the rise against Operational Technology (OT) systems. These are the interconnected devices and controllers commonly deployed in sectors such as manufacturing, transportation, energy, and water management. Advances in IT networks have led to a convergence of risk between OT and IT (Information Technology) systems. This paper examines the challenges and best practices in responding to this convergence and discusses some of the technical measures that can be used to improve the security of OT devices. The paper includes a focus on Singapore’s OT risk management approach outlined in the Singapore OT Cybersecurity Masterplan. The paper also includes comments on the OT challenges facing the Asia-Pacific region, and suggests how Singapore, in private-public partnership with industry groups, can improve the capacity for OT security in the Asia-Pacific region.

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