24th MEB Conference - Budapest, 24.04.2026

In recent years, the convergence of industrial automation and information technology has significantly increased the complexity and vulnerability of industrial control systems (ICS). This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the cybersecurity vulnerabilities inherent in industrial IT elements, with a particular focus on network infrastructure and robotic systems. Through real-world case studies and technical assessments, the paper identifies key threat vectors, including remote access misconfigurations, outdated firmware, unencrypted protocols, and social engineering attacks. It further explores systematic methods of vulnerability assessment, such as passive and active network analysis, physical and logical security audits, and automated vulnerability scanning tools. The study also emphasizes the role of international standards and regulations—such as IEC 62443, ISO/IEC 27001, and the NIS2 Directive—in strengthening industrial cybersecurity. Additionally, it presents effective defensive strategies, including network segmentation, multi-factor authentication, SIEM integration, and the application of ITIL-based governance frameworks. The findings highlight the urgent need for continuous monitoring, targeted training, and proactive security architecture to ensure the resilience and operational continuity of industrial environments in the face of evolving cyber threats.