Operational technology (OT) environments are increasingly connected to IT systems, enabling remote access and data exchange with significant efficiency benefits, but also posing security risks. Potential attackers are aware of this situation and the potential impact of OT security breaches and are increasingly targeting these environments. Industries such as manufacturing, energy and healthcare are particularly at risk, making it essential to assess and secure their infrastructure.
OT Penetration Testing
Our OT penetration test uncovers security vulnerabilities and provides an important decision-making base for strengthening industrial security architectures.
Why an OT penetration test is essential
An OT penetration test identifies potential vulnerabilities in complex networks or systems, e.g. rail vehicles, pacemakers or industrial control systems (ICS/PLCs). Comprehensive analysis of the individual OT application areas enables the development of potential attack scenarios and, based on this, the development of preventive countermeasures. Penetration tests of OT components enable secure integration into the environment and prevent additional threats and risks.
Common vulnerabilities in OT environments
OT environments often have typical vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit specifically. Many of these are often due to outdated systems with inadequate cyber security capabilities. Here is an overview of the most common vulnerabilities:
- Lack of access controls
- Undocumented or unknown devices
- No monitoring or anomaly detection
- Insufficient security awareness
- Outdated and unpatched systems
- Lack of network segmentation
- Default passwords and weak authentication
- Unencrypted communication
- Lack of hardening measures
- Components with missing security features
How we support you
Our OT penetration test was developed to assess the security of industrial control systems, taking into account the special requirements of OT environments – including legacy systems, long patch cycles and high availability requirements. Whether you want to secure a single production line or check the resilience of an entire plant, we identify vulnerabilities in a targeted manner without disrupting your operational processes.
Whether to meet regulatory requirements, strengthen your industrial security architecture or secure newly integrated systems, our OT penetration test delivers the insights you need to make informed decisions with the care and precision that industrial environments demand.
Targeted attack simulations
We simulate targeted attacks on your OT systems under real conditions – using manual methods and specialized tools that go far beyond automated scans. This is how we uncover vulnerabilities that others overlook.
Technical OT know-how
Our approach is based on a deep understanding of industrial protocols, architectures and operations. We combine practical experience with up-to-date expertise – for tests that start where it really counts.
Secure testing in critical environments
Our tests are designed in such a way that they do not disrupt operations. With a wealth of experience in critical infrastructures, we know how to simulate attacks – without any risks to ongoing operations.
Results of our OT penetration tests
Sample Assessment Report
Would you like to see what an assessment report from us can look like?
We carried out a realistic penetration test on the traffic management system (VLT) of “Limes Mobility GmbH”, which we had freely invented. In 10 person-days, the entire infrastructure of the VLT and the Active Directory (AD) used in it were examined in detail for vulnerabilities.
The final report of this pentest summarizes in detail the vulnerabilities found that endanger the confidentiality, availability and integrity of the infrastructure or parts of it.
Get this free, real-life example results report now and get an impression for how we can support you with an OT pentest.
Methodology of an OT penetration test
OT Penetration Testing: Insights & know-how directly from our experts
Standards we use
Our OT penetration tests are carried out on the foundations of the best practices defined by the following standards:
- NIST SP 800-82: Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Security Guide
- ISA/IEC 62443 Cyber security for industrial automation and control systems
- NIST Cyber Security Framework (CSF)
- ISO/IEC 27001 : Information security management systems
- OWASP Top 10 for OT security
- NERC CIP
Frequently asked questions
How is the pricing of OT penetration tests determined?
Compared to IT penetration testers, there are no widespread training standards for OT. OT penetration testing is a specialized field of knowledge – experience is gained “on the job”. In addition, higher requirements apply to the quality of the tests in order to avoid malfunctions and failures. Finally, tests must be compliant with industry standards such as IEC62443, NERC CIP or industry-specific standards.
Is it possible to carry out an OT penetration test in live operation?
It is not recommended to carry out the test during live operation. A maintenance window should preferably be used. If this is not possible, non-invasive tests (passive) or reduced tests can be carried out on test systems in live operation.
Which accesses are required?
The exact accesses depend on the system to be tested and the desired test cases, but can range from network access and physical access to documentation, circuit diagrams and access data to systems, depending on the system.
Does testing also have to be carried out at field level?
The field level usually has no existing security measures and an attacker with access can manipulate communication here. The focus is therefore on exposed and critical systems (control systems) and interfaces between IT/OT (jump server, remote access, etc.). Individual components at field level can be analyzed separately if desired.
What do I need to prepare for an OT penetration test?
The testers need a way to connect to the devices via network communication. This can either be done directly in the system network or via a patched network cable. In addition, at least one person from the tested company should be available during the test for any queries.
Who should be on site?
During the test, the Limes Security experts need a direct supervisor on site. Ideally, this is the system administrator or at least someone who can contact the relevant people promptly.
What do I get delivered?
Ideally, a system should be checked in an annual cycle. If this is not possible, it is recommended to at least perform a check in the event of major changes. Such changes could include modifications to the network segmentation, the addition of new machines or changing the remote access solution. A test is also urgently required after incidents.
How long does an OT penetration test take?
Limes Security usually carries out tests with two experts on site to enable efficient testing and keep downtimes to a minimum. OT penetration tests take longer on average than IT penetration tests. The average duration of an OT penetration test is around one week, although the actual time depends on the scope and depth of the test.
