What was a driving factor behind the increase in ICS-focused cyber attacks?

The correct answer is the growing dependency on digital infrastructures. This dependency has led to an increased vulnerability in industrial control systems (ICS) because as organizations integrate more technology into their operations, they create new avenues for cyber attacks. Cyber attackers often target these systems, knowing that their compromise can lead to significant disruptions, financial losses, and safety hazards. The interconnectedness of these systems makes critical infrastructure increasingly susceptible to breaches, as attackers can exploit weaknesses in one area to gain access to broader networks.

The increase in attacks is not a result of enhanced security protocols; in fact, as security measures have improved, attackers have adapted by developing more sophisticated methods. Similarly, the reduction in compliance measures and less regulatory oversight would not drive an increase in attacks; instead, they might lead to a lax attitude towards security, which can be exploited, but they do not inherently create a more attractive environment for cyber criminals. On the contrary, the growing reliance on digital infrastructures creates an expansive attack surface, making it a primary reason for the rise in ICS-focused cyber threats.