Nozomi Networks, Inc. has signed a managed security service provider (MSSP) partnership with Australian cyber security specialist Cyber Partners, which will enable industrial infrastructure operators to gain advanced OT and IoT visibility and cybersecurity via a trusted MSSP solution.
Based in Australia, Cyber Partners provides full service cyber risk management capabilities for mission critical customers such as energy and utilities companies. It runs a security operational centre (SOC) from Queensland and primarily provides strategic advisory, CREST-accredited penetration testing, security operations, incident response and cyber training to customers.
Demand for operational technology (OT) and internet of things (IoT) security is on the rise as organisations shore up against threats from extremists, IP theft and tensions from nation states. Public consultation on a new voluntary Code of Practice from the Federal Government to secure IoT for Australians was completed last month, highlighting the growing urgency to address the problem.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also created an abrupt need for companies to increase visibility of their asset inventories. Many have dramatically changed as they race to get the devices and applications they need to enable remote work.
“Critical infrastructure and major industry are the lifeblood of the economy, and industrial control systems keep them running,” said Tony Barnes, Chief Executive Officer, Cyber Partners.
“With so much uncertainty in the country right now, it’s vital to keep these societal pillars running and protecting against the cyber threats they face. The necessary rapid transition to remote work in recent weeks adds a new layer to these concerns and is something we’re seeing cyber criminals actively trying to exploit.”
Initially, the partnership will focus on driving customer acquisition in resources and mining, energy and transport, with several Australian resources companies already in the pipeline. There is also potential to expand the agreement into new verticals and markets, including New Zealand and the rest of Asia Pacific.
Cyber Partners’ MSSP offering now leverages Nozomi Networks’ full suite of products and solutions, including its OT and IoT security and visibility product Guardian; security management system Central Management Console; and Nozomi Networks threat and asset intelligence services.
The official partnership follows successful joint industrial controls systems (ICS) security projects on two Australian seaport customers, which were recently completed over just four months. Nozomi Networks and Cyber Partners were able to provide full visibility, control and risk analysis over both customers’ entire network of assets, significantly improving their cyber security posture.
“We are pleased to team with Cyber Partners to strengthen our expansion across Australia, and potentially beyond,” said Dung Hua, Channel Director APJ, Nozomi Networks.
“In most organisations, OT has not typically had the same level of attention or protection as the IT environment. But the threat level is the same, if not greater, particularly for critical infrastructure companies. Cyber Partners understands how these threats are constantly evolving and how our combined technology and expertise can assist.”
Founded in 2013, Nozomi Networks is trusted by customers worldwide for its advanced OT and IoT threat detection and strength across global deployments. Nozomi Networks solutions support more than 3.4 million devices in more than 2,300 installations spanning energy, manufacturing, mining, transportation, utilities and critical infrastructure.
Nozomi Networks first launched in A/NZ in 2018 and has steadily grown its local team and customer base in the region. It recently announced a deal with leading New Zealand energy and internet service company Trustpower, delivering deep asset discovery and improved operational visibility and control over its network.
