Growing Cybersecurity Issues Impacting Manufacturing

As manufacturers increasingly integrate advanced technologies like the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), robotics, and automation into their operations, cybersecurity becomes more critical than ever. While these innovations boost efficiency and productivity, they also expand potential areas for cyberattacks. However, there are steps you can take to protect your manufacturing company.

Identifying Issues

The convergence of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) in manufacturing presents unique cybersecurity issues. IT systems traditionally handle data management, while OT systems control physical processes and machinery. A breach in one can affect the other, amplifying the impact and potentially leading to production downtime, financial losses, and reputational damage.

For instance, a hacker gaining access to internet-connected machinery could shut down operations or intentionally cause defective products. Additionally, ransomware could be introduced into a manufacturer’s systems, blocking access until a ransom is paid.

The supply chain also makes manufacturers more vulnerable to cyberattacks. With an intricate network of suppliers, logistics firms, distributors, retailers, and others often connected by the internet, a vulnerability in one link can expose the entire chain to cyber risks.

Cybercriminals can steal valuable intellectual property stored on a manufacturer’s computer systems and sell it on the black market. This includes patents, designs, manufacturing processes, research and development documents, customer lists, contracts, bidding information, business plans, marketing plans, and proprietary software.

Manufacturers are also susceptible to ordinary fraud. For example, a cybercriminal may send a phony email from an actual vendor, updating its payment information and asking the manufacturer to send all future payments to a bank account that the criminal controls.

Mitigating Risks

The first step to protecting your manufacturing company against potentially devastating cyberattacks is to conduct a risk assessment. Take inventory of your hardware, software, and data, and identify any vulnerabilities. It’s also critical to examine all the ways employees, vendors, and other partners can access your network.

Consider adopting a robust cybersecurity framework that includes real-time monitoring, employee training, and secure network architecture to protect assets and ensure operational continuity.

One key measure is network segmentation, which isolates critical OT systems from IT networks. This helps ensure that if a breach occurs in one area, attackers can’t easily access your entire system. Firewalls and secure gateways that control data flow between IT and OT environments further reduce vulnerabilities.

Moreover, prioritize securing your supply chain. Establish stringent cybersecurity standards for suppliers and integrate them into your risk management frameworks.

Finally, employee training and awareness are crucial. Human error is a leading cause of security breaches. Reduce risk by regularly educating employees about recognizing phishing attempts, using strong passwords, and following security protocols.

Forming a Response Plan

Manufacturers should also develop incident response plans and regularly test them to help speed recovery in the event of an attack. By combining proactive measures, continuous monitoring, and a culture of security awareness, you can reduce the risk of cyberattacks and their impact on your manufacturing company.