In critical infrastructure, outdated PLCs aren’t just a vulnerability—they’re a liability. Legacy systems from manufacturers like GE, Rockwell, and Siemens are increasingly becoming targets for cyberattacks. For sectors like energy, water, and transportation, a breach could mean more than financial loss—it could result in widespread service outages, compromised safety, and long-term reputational damage.
The Cost of Inaction:
Case 1 – Delayed Upgrades: At a major power plant, the team decided to defer PLC upgrades, thinking the systems were secure due to their isolation. But with outdated firmware and no recent patches, the systems became vulnerable to a sophisticated cyberattack. When the attack hit, the grid went down for several days, leading to widespread blackouts, costing billions in lost revenue, and sparking a national security incident. The plant faced not just recovery costs, but also significant regulatory scrutiny and reputational damage that took years to rebuild.
Case 2 – Proactive Protection: In contrast, another energy facility chose to modernize its PLCs as part of a comprehensive security strategy. Recognizing the increasing threat of cyberattacks, they prioritized security upgrades, replacing legacy systems with modern, secure alternatives. As a result, the facility not only avoided major incidents but also improved operational efficiency, allowing for better system monitoring and more effective threat detection. Their proactive approach paid off by reducing downtime, lowering long-term costs, and safeguarding public services.
Both scenarios illustrate the high stakes involved in critical infrastructure, where security lapses can have serious, wide-reaching consequences. In today’s increasingly connected world, relying on outdated systems simply isn’t an option.
At InflexionPoint, we’ve spent decades helping critical infrastructure organizations secure their systems and mitigate cyber risks. Cybersecurity is an integral part of our comprehensive approach to designing and building data-driven operational technology systems. Our expertise ensures that your PLCs are not the weak link in your network.
Contact us today to modernize your operations and protect your essential services from evolving cybersecurity threats
