The manufacturing sector is one of the largest, most diverse, and most rapidly changing segments of the global economy. While this sector experiences an era of tremendous potential for innovation and growth, it also brings with it new risks and challenges. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the manufacturing cyber landscape.
The rise of digital technologies and global interconnectivity marks a new level of complexity for business leaders in the manufacturing sector. Cybercrime is no longer limited to certain aspects of operations or certain people; rather, it is everywhere, in places manufacturing leaders likely haven’t considered. Every employee, every partner, every electronic device, every piece of machinery, or every finished product brings with it the potential for cyber risk. And many manufacturers could be under-prepared for its potential impact.
The manufacturing sector faces several cybersecurity challenges, including:
- Phishing: Phishing attacks involve tricking the recipient of an email or text into opening a link, providing hackers with an entry point into a secure network. These messages will appear to have been sent from within the company itself or from a trusted partner organization. The messages will often be meticulously created, using the correct terminology and imagery to appear official. Once a hacker has gained access to the secure network, they can move unnoticed, acquiring the information needed to complete the attack. This information will either be ransomed back to the organization or sold to other bad actors on the dark web. Manufacturing companies are often more vulnerable to phishing attacks due to a long supply chain that comprises many disparate organizations, providing more points of entry for hackers.
- Ransomware: Ransomware attacks have become a significant threat in the manufacturing space. These attacks involve hackers encrypting critical data and demanding payment in exchange for the decryption key. The manufacturing industry is particularly susceptible to ransomware because of the abundant usage of computer-aided design (CAD) and other design technologies. Access to design software and the associated files is essential for modern manufacturing, so holding them for ransom can be crippling to a company.
- Third-party vendor / supply chain attacks: Manufacturing organizations rely on complex supply chains that involve numerous suppliers, contractors, and partners. Cyber attackers may target these supply chains to gain access to manufacturing systems and steal valuable data. Supply chain attacks can be particularly difficult to detect and mitigate, as they can occur at various points outside of the organization’s immediate control.
- Telecommuting risks: The advent of telecommuting and better software system integration has allowed many employees to work from home, allowing manufacturers to benefit from global workforces and providing greater flexibility for many employees. Remote work has become a more substantial risk over the past few years. Cybercriminals are taking advantage of misconfigured cloud security measures and insecure home networks and devices. Due to these vulnerabilities, remote workers are often the target of phishing scams via email, text, voice, and third-party apps.
- Social Engineering: Social engineering is similar to phishing; it focuses on manipulating people to give up confidential information. It accounts for more than 80% of reported cyber incidents. Furthermore, roughly 90% of organizations reported a social engineering attack within the past year.
To address these challenges, manufacturers need to implement robust cybersecurity measures, such as strong access controls, regular vulnerability assessments, and employee training programs. They should also consider working with cybersecurity experts to develop a comprehensive security strategy that addresses both current and emerging threats.
To learn more about how to implement an effective cybersecurity program at your manufacturing business, download our eBook: A Manufacturers Guide to Cybersecurity