IT/OT Segmentation Series – Post 3: What Not to Do When it comes to IT/OT segmentation, mistakes can leave your port or vessel exposed, even if your intentions are good. Here are some common pitfalls we see during cybersecurity assessments under the new Coast Guard Cyber Rule: 🚫 Assuming VLANs = Segmentation Virtual LANs are helpful, but they aren’t enough. Without physical or properly firewalled separation, VLANs can still allow malware to move laterally between IT and OT networks. 🚫 Overlooking Vendor Access Many third-party maintenance providers have persistent remote access into OT environments...and no one’s watching. Every one of those connections is an attack path. 🚫 Skipping Legacy System Reviews Even old equipment with no direct internet access can be a backdoor risk if it’s on the same flat network as modern systems. 🚫 Not Doing a Complete Physical and Logical Inventory Cranes are quite obvious, but we see many instances where smaller systems are not accounted for. You have to treat your physical inspection like a child treats hunting for Easter eggs: open cabinets, and deliberately seek out OT systems. ✅ The new Coast Guard Rule requires segmentation. But doing it wrong won’t just fail compliance...it leaves you vulnerable. In Post 4, we’ll talk about how to maintain segmented environments over time through monitoring and access control. Need a segmentation check-up? MAD Security can help. We support shipping companies, ports, and cruise lines with practical, standards-aligned solutions. #MaritimeCyber #CoastGuardRule #ITOTSegmentation #OTSecurity #PortSecurity #MTSA #CyberCompliance #MADSecurity #LegacySystems #VendorAccess #CriticalInfrastructure
IT/OT Segmentation Mistakes: Common Pitfalls to Avoid
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This is a great breakdown of common pitfalls Cliff Neve, and it really highlights why segmentation is more than just a checkbox exercise. VLANs, vendor access, and legacy systems all introduce hidden risks that too many organizations overlook, especially when they’re rushing to meet compliance deadlines. I’ve found that the most successful segmentation efforts start with a full physical and logical inventory, because you can’t protect what you don’t know you have. Pairing that with strong governance over vendor connections and proper isolation controls goes a long way in reducing lateral movement opportunities. The Coast Guard’s rule is clear, but the real win comes when ports and vessels treat segmentation not just as compliance, but as a foundation for operational resilience.