Zero Trust Playbook: Oil & Gas Industry

🎯 Purpose

To guide oil and gas organizations in implementing Zero Trust principles across IT and OT environments, enhancing operational resilience, safety, and cyber defense.

🧭 Phase 1: Strategic Alignment

Key Actions:

• Executive Briefing: Frame Zero Trust as a business enabler, not just a security upgrade.

• Cross-Domain Governance: Merge IT and OT cybersecurity leadership.

• Define Trust Zones: Map assets across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations.

Leadership Message:

“We don’t trust by default—not even inside the perimeter. Every access must be earned, verified, and limited.”

🔐 Phase 2: Identity & Access Control

Key Actions:

• Implement MFA across field and remote access

• Federate identity across IT/OT systems

• Enforce least privilege for vendors, contractors, and mobile workers

Use Case:

PETRONAS adopted Xage’s Zero Trust Fabric to secure remote operations and connected workers.

🧱 Phase 3: Network Segmentation & Microperimeters

Key Actions:

• Segment OT networks from IT systems

• Apply granular access controls to SCADA, PLCs, and RTUs

• Monitor lateral movement and enforce containment policies

Tools:

• Secure service mesh

• OT-aware firewalls

• Real-time anomaly detection

📊 Phase 4: Continuous Monitoring & Behavioral Analytics

Key Actions:

• Deploy real-time telemetry across endpoints and control systems

• Use AI/ML to detect deviations from normal behavior

• Integrate SOC with OT incident response

🧠 Phase 5: Culture & Behavior Change

Key Actions:

• Train field technicians on secure mobile and credential practices

• Coach managers to reinforce cyber hygiene in daily operations

• Use champions to model secure behavior in remote sites

📌 Metrics for Success

Area	KPI Example
Identity Management	% of users with MFA enabled
Network Segmentation	# of microsegments deployed
Behavior Change	% of employees completing secure behavior training
Incident Response	Mean time to detect and contain threats