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IoT connects physical devices to the internet for data exchange; OT controls industrial equipment and processes in critical infrastructure.
Why in News
Concerns over the cybersecurity of India's Critical National Infrastructure were raised due to increasing vulnerabilities from IoT and AI-based systems deployed across power grids, water supply, and industrial control networks.
Key Facts
- Internet of Things (IoT): Network of physical devices embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity to collect and exchange data over the internet without human intervention.
- Operational Technology (OT): Hardware and software that monitors and controls physical devices, processes, and infrastructure — used in power plants, water treatment, manufacturing, and transportation.
- Convergence Risk: Integration of IT (Information Technology) and OT systems expands attack surfaces — traditional air-gapped OT networks now internet-connected. (UPSC Mains Usage: Links to GS3 Internal Security — cyber threats to critical infrastructure.)
- Examples of IoT: Smart meters, industrial sensors, connected medical devices, traffic management systems, surveillance cameras.
- Examples of OT: SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), DCS (Distributed Control Systems), industrial control systems (ICS).
- Critical Infrastructure: Includes power grids, water supply, telecommunications, financial systems, transportation networks, healthcare facilities.
- Global Precedents: 2015 Ukraine power grid attack (BlackEnergy malware), 2021 Colonial Pipeline ransomware (USA), 2022 AIIMS Delhi ransomware (India).
- India's Response: National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) under National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) — designated under Section 70A, IT Act, 2000.
Quick Revision Box
|
Term |
Detail |
|
IoT |
Physical devices with sensors connected to internet for data exchange |
|
OT |
Hardware/software controlling physical industrial processes |
|
IT-OT Convergence |
Integration expands cyber attack surfaces |
|
SCADA |
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition — OT system |
|
NCIIPC |
National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre — under NTRO |
|
IT Act Section |
Section 70A — designates critical infrastructure |
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