Cybersecurity Risks in Networked Building Systems Across Industries

Many facilities, including agricultural plants and water treatment facilities, are now dependent on networked control systems for monitoring critical processes. These systems, such as sensors and automation controls, often share networks with corporate IT, exposing them to cyber threats that could lead to hazardous situations, including gas leaks or contaminated water.

A notable incident involved an automotive client's factory shutting down due to an IT scan mistakenly applied to robotic systems, resulting in workplace safety risks. Facilities professionals need to identify devices that control physical processes and assess their vulnerabilities, as these systems cannot be managed like traditional IT assets. This growing interconnectivity of operational systems poses significant risks that require specialized attention and protocols.