As geopolitical tensions continue to rise across the globe, the security of Operational Technology (OT) systems is more than ever in the crosshairs of cybercriminals. Production environments, public services, transport systems… are no longer safe havens in the digital landscape. The growing number of attacks targeting industrial systems proves that the line between IT and OT is becoming increasingly blurred — with all the risks that entails. The topic is a central focus at Easi, which is recognized for its deep expertise in securing critical IT and OT environments.
Expanding attack surface
According to a recently published report by Orange*, 46% of direct OT attacks allow cybercriminals to actually take control of physical processes. These incidents — referred to as «category 2 incidents» — account for only 16% of direct attacks on OT environments, but their impact is particularly severe. The increasing integration of IT and OT environments also raises the risk level, as an attack on an IT network can now unintentionally affect OT systems, threatening business continuity. Connecting industrial systems to digital networks certainly improves efficiency, but also exposes organizations to new vulnerabilities. OT environments often rely on outdated technologies, which are difficult to update and lack essential layers of protection. At the same time, their growing connection to IT networks or the cloud multiplies the number of potential attack vectors.
« Today, cybersecurity is no longer just a concern for companies it’s about protecting our entire society. Countries now see European OT infrastructures (defense manufacturers, banks, air traffic control systems, etc.) — as legitimate targets. Hackers today have the power to bring an entire country to its knees», explains Mirko Montorro, Business Unit Manager at Easi.
Investing in NIS2 and ISO
For Easi, securing OT environments has become a top priority in its advisory and service approach. European regulation plays a key role in this shift. «The arrival of NIS2, ISO certifications and other EU frameworks couldn’t have come at a better time», adds Mirko Montorro. «These rules finally demand a higher level of compliance for essential sectors, but now it’s up to companies to invest. Treating an OT environment like a simple IT network is an unacceptable risk», he concludes.
Protecting OT systems requires a specialized approach tailored to the realities of industrial operations: operational continuity, physical safety, and zero tolerance for downtime. In this context, Easi, a major IT player in Belgium, actively works to raise awareness and support companies in strengthening their digital resilience — far beyond traditional cybersecurity standards.
For IT companies, being present at Cybersec Europe is essential to capture current trends in the sector (such as OT security), engage with key vendors, and observe how competitors are positioning themselves. It’s also an excellent opportunity to meet clients, strengthen relationships, and build brand visibility in the cybersecurity landscape.
*Source Orange: https://industrievandaag.nl/orange-cyberdefense-ot-beveiliging/
About Cybersec Europe 2025
Cybersec Europe is the leading cybersecurity and compliance event in the Benelux. Each year, thousands of professionals gather at Brussels Expo for two days of networking, learning, and innovation. The 2025 edition will take place on May 21 and 22.
For the third consecutive year, Easi will be present with its own booth, at stand number 05.C077. Come talk to our experts about the latest cybersecurity trends and the challenges facing your industry — or just drop by to say hello.
About Easi
Easi is a Belgian IT company that has been offering IT services and solutions and developing its own business software for medium and large companies since 1999. In all the solutions offered, Easi positions itself as a high-value-added partner and aims for a long-term relationship with all its clients. Easi also places great importance on the well-being of its 600 employees.
More information on cybersecurity at Easi : https://easi.net/en/solutions/security