The manufacturing industry is embracing modern digital technologies such as the Internet of Things, cloud computing, and automation. These solutions improve productivity, collaboration, and profitability. But they also introduce risk. As manufacturers begin to implement more advanced IT infrastructure, they open new vulnerabilities.
Your most important weapon is knowledge. To protect yourself from today’s manufacturing cybersecurity threats, you must first understand them. That’s what this blog is for. Read on to discover the most common threats your firm might face – and more importantly, how to defend yourself against them.
Read more: 5 IT Challenges in the Manufacturing Industry (and How to Solve Them)
The Most Common Cybersecurity Threats in Manufacturing
Ransomware
Ransomware is one of the most devastating cybersecurity threats for small businesses in any industry. During a ransomware attack, malicious actors take your data or workflows hostage and demand payment for their safe return. They often use double and even triple extortion measures.
In manufacturing, where tight deadlines are common and operations must be continuous, ransomware is particularly effective. Threat actors understand the damage even a short disruption can cause, and use this knowledge to pressure you into obedience.
Social Engineering
A social engineering attack is any cyber threat that relies on human psychology, rather than advanced technological tools. One example is phishing, where cybercriminals pose as a legitimate entity to collect information or install malware on company devices. Social engineering is dangerous because of its ability to completely bypass traditional defenses, leaving your firm helpless.
Insider Threats
Not all threats come from outside the business. Some of the worst breaches occur because a staff member accidentally leaked sensitive information, or a disgruntled former employee intentionally compromised login credentials. Since most businesses focus on perimeter security, an insider threat can catch you completely unprepared.
Legacy Systems and Unpatched Software
Many manufacturers still rely on legacy systems that weren’t designed with modern threats in mind. These often don’t receive updates, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. Poor patch management worsens this.
IoT and OT Device Vulnerabilities
Manufacturing firms use a mixture of physical and digital technology. Operational technology (OT) and Internet of Things (IoT) devices typically lack built-in security features, making them extremely difficult to secure. Threat actors target this weakness in the hopes of a low-effort payout.
Not enough information? Explore more common threats in manufacturing
Cybersecurity Protection Strategies (That Actually Work)
These cybersecurity protection strategies target the biggest threats that you’re likely to face as a manufacturer:
Zero Trust Architecture
Zero Trust architecture assumes that any access attempt could be a potential threat, and requires verification every single time. While it may sound harsh, this is the most effective way to prevent both insider threats and social engineering attacks. Zero Trust is especially important in remote work environments.
Routine Risk Assessments
You can’t protect vulnerabilities if you aren’t even aware of them. Make regular risk assessments a part of your normal business operations. These will allow you to focus new security initiatives where they are needed most, saving money while ensuring maximum effectiveness.
Employee Awareness Training
Educate all employees on social engineering, secure data handling practices, and your firm’s incident response procedures. Test what they’ve learned with fake attacks. The more they know, the better prepared they will be to protect your firm against threats.
Patch Management
As irritating as the brief operational disruptions may be, it is incredibly important to keep all software up-to-date. Patches are often designed to address existing vulnerabilities, which can otherwise be exploited fairly easily. On that note, if you still use Windows 10, it’s time to consider upgrading.
Network Segmentation
Segmenting networks is one of the best ways to prevent IoT and OT devices from compromising your entire firm. If a breach occurs, you can easily disconnect the affected section of your network and quarantine the threat.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA requires a second form of verification before granting access to sensitive accounts, systems, and data. Some examples include a Yubikey, a code sent to a second device, or a fingerprint scan. This step alone makes social engineering attacks significantly less likely to succeed.
Incident Response Planning
Always plan for the worst-case scenario. Develop a strategy outlining how your firm should respond to a potential attack. Include roles, responsibilities, and procedures. Test it thoroughly, and place copies in an easily accessible location. This plan will also help you demonstrate compliance, if your firm is audited.
Set Your Manufacturing Firm Up for Success
Your IT environment can be complicated, especially when security is brought into the picture. But it’s not impossible to manage. There are a number of simple, easy steps you can take to prevent common threats and defend your manufacturing firm. All you need is the right knowledge and support.
As specialists in the manufacturing IT space, we understand that your technology can either make or break you. But investing in new tools can be intimidating, especially if you don’t know where to start. We’re here to fix that. Read our buyer’s guide to discover solutions that will set you up for success.
FAQs
What Are the Most Common Cybersecurity Threats in Manufacturing?
The most common cybersecurity threats in manufacturing include insider threats, IoT and OT vulnerabilities, social engineering scams, and ransomware attacks.
What Are Some Effective Manufacturing IT Security Strategies?
Some effective manufacturing IT security strategies include Zero Trust architecture, MFA, regular risk assessments, and network segmentation.
Can We Afford to Secure Our Small Firm’s IT?
Yes, you can afford to secure your small firm’s IT against cyber threats. Plenty of effective measures are free, such as MFA and Zero Trust architecture.
What if We Experience an Attack?
If your firm experiences a cyber-attack, immediately follow your incident response plan and contact any affected individuals. Depending on the nature of the breach, you may also need to report it to the authorities. Most importantly, do not panic.