THE RISE OF AI-DRIVEN IOT
HOW CHEMICAL ENGINEERS ARE HELPING TO STRENGTHEN CYBERSECURITY
With chemicals playing a role in 96 per cent of manufactured goods, safeguarding chemical companies against cyber threats is a top priority. As digital transformation integrates operational technology( OT) with information technology( IT), chemical companies face increased exposure to sophisticated cyber threats. Cybersecurity is not just a technical issue, it requires a shift in culture, mindset and awareness of overlooked areas like physical security and supply chain integrity. Here, Duncan Lugton, Head of Policy & Impact at the Institution of Chemical Engineers( IChemE) explores how chemical engineers are uniquely positioned to take the lead in addressing these security challenges.
Our economy and society rely on a wide range of digital infrastructure, yet these critical systems are under unprecedented threat. Recent government research reveals that approximately half of UK businesses have faced a cyber-attack in the past year, drawing attention to the critical need for enhanced cybersecurity strategies.
A fundamental challenge in this area is the mismatch between OT and IT systems. OT systems are built for longevity, safety and reliability, while IT systems prioritise flexibility, scalability and frequent updates. Unlike IT, OT was not initially designed with cybersecurity in mind, leaving legacy OT equipment vulnerable to cyber threats, an ongoing issue in the UK given the prevalence of legacy equipment. Without built-in protections like encryption, these systems can be compromised through simple attack vectors, such as infected USB devices or unguarded access points. Cybersecurity awareness across the engineering sector remains inconsistent, with many
28 AUTOMATION, CONTROL & ENGINEERING