Mitigating Cyber-security Risks in Manufacturing

Although technological advancements in the manufacturing industry provide several benefits, they also present cyber-security exposures. The expanded use of digital tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital sales platforms and smart machinery expand the attack surface for cyber-criminals, and resulting cyber-attacks can cause significant business disruptions, reputational damage and financial losses. Robust cyber-security measures are vital to protect sensitive data and ensure business continuity.

Why Do Cyber-criminals Target Manufacturing?

There are several reasons cyber-criminals target manufacturers. The industry often possesses valuable intellectual property (eg proprietary designs), and malicious actors may perceive it to have weaker cyber-security compared to other sectors.

Additionally, due to manufacturing’s role in the global supply chain, cyber-criminals know that cyber-attacks can lead to major financial losses and may believe that manufacturing organisations are more likely to give in to their demands despite recommendations to the contrary. The interconnected supply chain also could provide entry into numerous entities through one weak link, making it an appealing target. 

Common Types of Cyber-risks

While cyber-criminals have many methods of infiltration, certain types of cyber-attacks are common in manufacturing. These include ransomware attacks, industrial espionage and supply chain attacks. Insider threats present additional risks. These threats occur when individuals with authorisation to enter an organisation’s network or data—including current or former employees, contractors and business partners—intentionally or accidentally steal sensitive information, sabotage systems or facilitate internal attacks. 

Cyber-security Best Practices 

To help combat cyber-security risks, manufacturing business leaders should take proactive steps to bolster their digital defences. In particular, these organisations should consider the following best practices:

• Adopt zero-trust architecture and assume that any user or device could be an entry point for a breach.
• Implement strict role-based access controls.
• Utilise multifactor authentication (MFA) and encryption.
• Bolster supply chain cyber-security and only partner with third-party vendors and suppliers with strict cyber-security protocols.
• Include cyber-security requirement clauses in vendor contracts.
• Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments with penetration testing.
• Establish a cyber-security incident response plan.
• Vet employees and provide regular and robust cyber-security training.
• Foster a culture of cyber-security, encouraging employees to report suspicious activity.
• Backup data and safely store it.
• Install advanced antivirus and malware protection software and use patch management systems.
• Leverage technologies such as AI and machine learning to detect unusual activity within a system.
• Segment networks to limit malicious actors’ access to sensitive information by restricting their lateral movement within the network if they gain entry.
• Secure cyber-insurance to help mitigate a business’s exposure to cyber-related damages.

Conclusion

Implementing strong cyber-security protocols and obtaining a cyber-insurance policy can help address cyber-risks and safeguard businesses’ data, finances and reputations. Contact us today for more information.