Safeguarding the Future: Insights from Ilya Leonov of Positive Technologies
In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. Sandhya D’Mello recently engaged with Ilya Leonov, the Mena Regional Director of Positive Technologies, based in Moscow. Leonov’s focus on protecting critical infrastructures and guiding organizations towards smarter investments in cybersecurity solutions is both timely and essential.
Innovative Solutions on Display
At this year’s event, Positive Technologies showcased a range of innovative solutions, categorized into several key domains. Leonov emphasized the significance of application security, particularly for the financial sector and commercial organizations. With financial motivation being a primary driver for cybercriminals, ensuring the security of applications is paramount.
Another critical area highlighted was industrial cybersecurity, especially within operational technology (OT) environments. These systems are vital for national infrastructure, making them prime targets for hacktivists and malicious actors. The company’s Threat Resource Center has conducted extensive reports and investigations, revealing the increasing threats faced by industrial systems. In response, Positive Technologies is introducing several innovations aimed at bolstering security in this domain.
Additionally, Leonov announced the launch of a managed security program for partners, addressing the growing demand for cybersecurity services. This initiative aims to support partners with a comprehensive managed services platform, enhancing their ability to protect their clients effectively.
Channel Partnerships: A Two-Tier Model
When discussing the company’s approach to partnerships, Leonov explained that Positive Technologies operates on a standard two-tier model involving distributors and partners. Currently, the company collaborates with three major distributors that cover the entire Mena region. Furthermore, they have established a network of over 100 partners, including system integrators and managed security service providers, which allows them to extend their reach and enhance their service offerings.
Readiness for Industrial Cybersecurity
As organizations undergo digital transformation, the question arises: are they prepared to tackle the increasing demand for industrial cybersecurity? Leonov pointed out the duality of the situation. On one hand, critical industrial systems—such as those in oil and gas, electricity, and nuclear power—are essential for national security. On the other hand, the security measures in place for these systems often remain basic due to their complexity and critical nature.
With over 20 years of experience in protecting critical environments, Positive Technologies is well-equipped to share its expertise. Leonov expressed eagerness to help organizations enhance their security measures, ensuring that they are not only compliant with local regulations but also genuinely protected against evolving threats.
Investment in Cybersecurity: A Strategic Approach
Leonov stressed that investment in cybersecurity should not merely be about acquiring the latest technologies. Instead, it should focus on ensuring that investments are reasonable, efficient, and deliver the expected level of protection. Compliance with local regulations from central banks and government bodies is essential, but the ultimate goal is to ensure that resources are utilized effectively to achieve meaningful security outcomes.
To facilitate this, Positive Technologies employs a result-driven cybersecurity framework that guarantees investments yield the necessary security results, thereby fostering a culture of proactive cybersecurity management.
The UAE: A Leader in Industrial Cybersecurity
When asked about the UAE’s approach to adopting industrial cybersecurity solutions, Leonov praised the country for its proactive stance. The UAE is recognized as a leader in implementing AI and machine learning technologies for critical infrastructure, including industrial cybersecurity. Leonov noted that other regions could benefit from the UAE’s experience and expertise in this domain.
Emerging Trends in Industrial Cybersecurity
Looking ahead to 2025, Leonov identified several emerging trends in the technology landscape, particularly in industrial cybersecurity. One significant trend is the development of comprehensive, 360-degree coverage for OT environments. Currently, many industrial systems experience fragmented protection, with some areas well-secured while others remain vulnerable. Positive Technologies aims to provide holistic solutions that encompass all aspects of industrial cybersecurity.
This includes the establishment of Security Operations Centers (SOCs) tailored for industrial systems and offering security assessment services to evaluate the effectiveness of existing measures. Furthermore, the company is focusing on automating repetitive security tasks, allowing security analysts to concentrate on more complex and intelligent threat-hunting activities.
Target Industries for Cybersecurity Solutions
Positive Technologies is specifically targeting industries with critical OT environments, including oil and gas, electricity, nuclear power, transport, and mining. Healthcare is also a priority, as medical devices constitute a complex and critical infrastructure that necessitates specialized cybersecurity measures.
Conclusion
As organizations navigate the complexities of digital transformation, the insights shared by Ilya Leonov of Positive Technologies underscore the importance of investing in robust cybersecurity solutions. With a focus on application security, industrial cybersecurity, and strategic partnerships, Positive Technologies is poised to lead the charge in safeguarding critical infrastructures against the ever-evolving threat landscape. As we move toward 2025, the commitment to comprehensive security measures will be crucial in ensuring the resilience of industries that form the backbone of our economies.