Fortinet upscales OT & CI cybersecurity in Asia-Pacific

Fortinet has reinforced its commitment to advancing security within the operational technology (OT) and critical infrastructure (CI) sectors, announcing Michael Murphy's appointment to direct OT and CI cybersecurity initiatives throughout the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

Operational technology and critical infrastructure sectors globally, including in key markets such as Australia, India, New Zealand, and Singapore, have witnessed an escalating demand for enhanced security measures. In response, Fortinet has developed strategic initiatives underpinned by proactive anticipation and neutralisation of threats before they compromise CI. Michael Murphy, Director of Operational Technology and Critical Infrastructure, APAC, Fortinet, explained: "Fortinet's strategic investments in technology and talent keep it ahead of the curve, ensuring robust protection for our clients' OT and CI environments."

In the past year, threat actors have targeted OT and CI environments globally with profound implications. Fortinet addresses such challenges through strategic partnerships, technological innovation, and a steadfast commitment to CI security. The company offers a comprehensive strategy, deploying specialist tools such as the FortiGate Rugged 70G with 5G Dual Modem, purpose-built for industrial protection and risk management.

The FortiGuard OT Security Service showcased by Fortinet is among the industry's deepest OT threat intelligence databases, covering an unparalleled range of protocols, applications, and vulnerabilities. This service enables strict access control policies on network traffic, along with virtual patching for vulnerable OT assets.

Fortinet's collaborative approach is evident in its partnerships with industry leaders in industrial automation and control. One such affiliation with Schneider Electric serves the shared vision of ensuring robust security in critical infrastructure. "The partnership Schneider Electric has built with Fortinet in the APAC region has gone from strength to strength," reported Nikki Saunders, regional cybersecurity business lead, APAC, Schneider Electric. Saunders emphasised the value that Fortinet's solutions add in designing, maintaining, and managing secure OT environments for Schneider Electric's customers.

In addition to technological advancements and strategic alliances, Fortinet has taken systematic steps to strengthen its team with operational technology experts. Murphy asserted that these professionals bring immense value from their direct experience in plant floor environments and generation sites. Fortinet also prioritises the professional development of its existing team to deepen its comprehension of OT complexities.

Fortinet's strategy is robustly informed by an in-depth understanding of compliance requirements, which positions the organisation to respond effectively to the challenges of OT and CI security with innovative solutions and collaborative efforts. By keeping a finger on the pulse of global trends and legislative changes, Fortinet doesn't merely respond to the present but actively shapes the future of cybersecurity within the OT and CI domains.