Rockwell Automation’s Bold Move to Strengthen Cybersecurity: Acquiring Verve Industrial

Rockwell Automation to Acquire ICS/OT Security Firm Verve Industrial

Overview

Industrial automation company Rockwell Automation has announced its intention to acquire Verve Industrial Protection, a cybersecurity firm specializing in industrial control systems (ICS) and operational technology (OT). This acquisition aims to expand Rockwell Automation’s offerings and strengthen its cybersecurity capabilities in the industrial sector. The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, but the acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of Rockwell’s 2024 fiscal year.

The Importance of ICS/OT Security

The acquisition of Verve Industrial by Rockwell Automation reflects the growing recognition of the importance of cybersecurity in the industrial sector. ICS and OT systems are critical to the functioning of industrial processes and infrastructure, making them attractive targets for cyberattacks. These attacks can have severe consequences, including operational disruptions, physical damage, and potential harm to public safety.

ICS/OT security solutions are designed to protect industrial systems from cyber threats, ensuring the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of critical operations. They provide asset inventory, vulnerability management, patch management, configuration management, incident response, and backup and restore capabilities. Additionally, they offer services such as network segmentation, vulnerability assessment, system hardening, automation engineering, and consulting.

Trends in Industrial Cybersecurity M&A

The acquisition of Verve Industrial by Rockwell Automation is part of a larger trend of industrial cybersecurity companies being sought after by larger industrial players. According to data from SecurityWeek’s M&A tracker, half a dozen M&A deals involving industrial cybersecurity companies were announced in 2022. However, only a few deals in 2023 have involved ICS security solutions providers so far.

This trend reflects the increasing recognition of the importance of cybersecurity in the industrial sector. As digital transformation continues to advance in industrial operations, the need for robust security solutions becomes more critical. By acquiring specialized cybersecurity firms, industrial companies like Rockwell Automation can enhance their existing offerings and better protect their customers’ operations.

An Editorial Perspective: Strengthening Cybersecurity in Critical Infrastructure

The acquisition of Verve Industrial by Rockwell Automation is a significant step toward strengthening cybersecurity in critical infrastructure and industrial operations. As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, it is crucial that companies invest in robust cybersecurity solutions to protect their operations.

Industrial control systems and operational technology are the backbone of critical infrastructure, supporting sectors such as energy, manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare. Any disruption or compromise of these systems can have severe consequences for public safety and the economy. Therefore, it is imperative that companies like Rockwell Automation prioritize cybersecurity and continually enhance their capabilities to protect critical infrastructure.

The acquisition of Verve Industrial not only expands Rockwell Automation’s offerings but also demonstrates its commitment to providing comprehensive cybersecurity solutions to its customers. By integrating Verve’s managed OT/ICS security platform into their suite of solutions, Rockwell Automation enables its customers to assess their assets, prioritize risks, and apply countermeasures within a single platform. This holistic approach to cybersecurity is essential for building resiliency and continuously improving the security, safety, and availability of operations.

Advice to Rockwell Automation and Other Industrial Players

As cyber threats continue to target critical infrastructure and industrial operations, it is essential for companies like Rockwell Automation to prioritize cybersecurity. Here are some key recommendations for Rockwell Automation and other industrial players in enhancing their cybersecurity capabilities:

1. Invest in Robust Cybersecurity Solutions:

Companies should invest in comprehensive cybersecurity solutions that provide holistic protection for industrial control systems and operational technology. These solutions should include asset inventory, vulnerability management, patch management, configuration management, incident response, and backup and restore capabilities.

2. Partnerships and Acquisitions:

Industrial players should actively seek partnerships and acquisitions with specialized cybersecurity firms to enhance their offerings and stay ahead of evolving cyber threats. These partnerships can provide access to the latest technologies, expertise, and best practices in industrial cybersecurity.

3. Continuous Monitoring and Assessment:

Implement continuous monitoring and assessment of industrial systems to detect and respond to cybersecurity threats promptly. This can involve real-time monitoring of network traffic, anomaly detection, and regular vulnerability assessments.

4. Employee Training and Awareness:

Invest in comprehensive cybersecurity training and awareness programs for employees to ensure that they understand the importance of cybersecurity and can identify potential risks and threats.

5. Collaboration and Information Sharing:

Collaborate with industry peers, government agencies, and cybersecurity organizations to share threat intelligence, best practices, and lessons learned. This collaboration can help the industry as a whole stay updated on emerging threats and collectively develop effective countermeasures.

6. Government Support and Regulation:

Advocate for government support, funding, and regulation in the field of industrial cybersecurity. Government involvement can play a crucial role in promoting cybersecurity standards, information sharing, and incentivizing companies to invest in robust cybersecurity measures.

By following these recommendations, industrial players like Rockwell Automation can enhance their cybersecurity capabilities, strengthen critical infrastructure, and contribute to a more resilient and secure industrial sector.