ComTec | Building a Resilient Defense: How Manufacturers Can Strengthen Their Cybersecurity Posture

In an era dominated by digital transformation and interconnected technologies, manufacturing is facing an unprecedented surge in cybercrime. The shift toward smart factories, automated systems, and IoT integration has undoubtedly propelled the sector into the future, but it has also made manufacturers a prime target for cyber threats. In fact, heightened connectivity and data transparency have made manufacturing the most targeted sector for cyberattacks for three years in a row. It now accounts for 25.7 percent of attacks, with ransomware involved in 71 percent of these incidents. These incidents have disrupted machine operations, halted production in plants and warehouses, and threatened global supply chains.

As Industry 4.0 takes hold, manufacturers are expected to implement resilient cybersecurity strategies to safeguard their critical infrastructure, protect intellectual property, and ensure continuous operations. This article explores the growing threats facing the industry and offers actionable insights on how to build a stronger cybersecurity posture.

The Growing Threat of Cyber Attacks in Manufacturing

Manufacturers are increasingly exposed to a wide range of cyber threats that put their production environments and operational flow at risk. These threats are becoming more sophisticated and disruptive, with some of the most significant attacks including the following:

• Ransomware: Malicious software that encrypts critical data, locking manufacturers out of vital systems until a ransom is paid. This type of attack can halt operations entirely, leading to costly downtime.
• Phishing: Cybercriminals manipulate email systems to trick employees into revealing sensitive information. These attacks often serve as the gateway for more advanced breaches, giving hackers access to a company’s internal networks.
• Supply Chain Attacks: As manufacturers depend on third-party vendors, attackers exploit vulnerabilities in the supply chain to infiltrate internal systems. This can result in widespread disruptions, affecting both production and distribution channels.
• Insider Threats: Disgruntled employees or unwitting staff can bypass security protocols, posing a significant risk to manufacturing operations by compromising sensitive data.

A notable example of the growing threat to the sector is the 2023 cyberattack on Clorox, which disrupted operations and supply chains for major retailers like Walmart and Target. Although the exact nature of the attack remains unclear, it mirrored the effects of ransomware, taking critical systems offline and leading to a 20 percent drop in sales. The breach cost Clorox $356 million, including $25 million spent on securing its systems. This is just one of many incidents illustrating how cyberattacks are increasingly targeting the manufacturing industry, with far-reaching impacts on both production and supply chains.

Why Manufacturers Are Prime Targets

There are several reasons why the manufacturing sector is particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks. One of the primary factors is the prevalence of legacy systems and outdated technology in many factories. While these older systems are often reliable in terms of production, they lack the cybersecurity features necessary to defend against modern threats.

Additionally, increased connectivity is amplifying manufacturers’ exposure to cyber risks. As factories integrate IoT devices, sensors, and cloud-based solutions, they inadvertently widen the attack surface. The sheer number of connected devices and machines provides ample opportunities for cybercriminals to breach networks.

Lastly, the global supply chain makes manufacturers especially appealing to attackers. Any disruption in a key manufacturer’s operations can have a ripple effect, causing significant delays in other industries that rely on those products or components.

For more on this, visit our past article on cybersecurity in manufacturing here.

Key Components of a Resilient Cybersecurity Strategy

To combat the increasing risks posed by cyberattacks, manufacturers need a multifaceted approach to cybersecurity. This involves assessing risks, deploying advanced technologies, cultivating a cybersecurity-aware culture, and developing an effective incident response plan.

Assessing and Understanding Your Cybersecurity Risks

The first step in fortifying manufacturing cybersecurity is to conduct a thorough risk assessment. Manufacturers must identify their critical assets and vulnerabilities—whether they are machine operations, proprietary designs, or sensitive employee information. This assessment allows organizations to understand where their weaknesses lie and prioritize defenses accordingly.

Implementing Advanced Security Technologies

Technological solutions are essential for safeguarding manufacturers from cyber threats. Key components of a strong defense include the following:

• Encryption: Ensuring that all sensitive data, whether in transit or at rest, is encrypted to prevent unauthorized access.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Adding an extra layer of protection by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to access systems.
• Network segmentation: Dividing networks into smaller segments to minimize the impact of breaches. In case of a cyberattack, segmentation helps contain the spread of malicious activities across the factory or warehouse.

Developing a Cybersecurity Culture

Employees are often the first line of defense against cyber threats. Developing a cybersecurity culture means educating staff on best practices and raising awareness of potential risks like phishing or malware. Regular training and simulation exercises can reduce human error and prevent accidental breaches. Additionally, manufacturers should establish clear cybersecurity policies and have an experienced in-house or outsourced cybersecurity team to monitor threats and provide rapid response when incidents occur. Read this Forbes article for a better understanding of how crucial a culture of security truly is.

Building a Strong Incident Response Plan

Every manufacturing organization should have an incident response plan in place to handle breaches effectively. This plan should outline the steps to be taken immediately after a cyber incident occurs, from containing the threat to restoring operations. Regular drills and updates ensure that the response plan remains effective in the face of evolving threats.

For additional insights, download our cybersecurity ebook.

Challenges in Strengthening Cybersecurity and How to Overcome Them

Despite the growing importance of cybersecurity, manufacturers face several challenges when it comes to implementing effective defense strategies.

Budget Constraints

Many manufacturers operate on thin margins, making it difficult to allocate funds for cybersecurity improvements. However, adopting cost-effective strategies such as cloud-based security services, open-source security tools, and outsourced security operations can provide robust protection without breaking the bank. Cybersecurity enhancements are worth investing in to prevent the potential financial and operational impact of a cyberattack.

Securing Legacy Systems

Securing older systems is one of the biggest challenges for manufacturers, particularly those with deeply entrenched production lines. Manufacturers must strike a balance between modernizing outdated systems and maintaining operational continuity. Solutions like network segmentation, patch management, and advanced monitoring tools can help secure these legacy systems without disrupting plant operations.

Navigating Regulatory Requirements

As governments and industry bodies introduce more stringent cybersecurity regulations, manufacturers must ensure compliance with frameworks like the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines. Compliance not only protects manufacturers from legal penalties but also strengthens overall security by encouraging the adoption of best practices.

Future Trends in Manufacturing Cybersecurity

Emerging technologies like blockchain, quantum computing, and next-generation artificial intelligence (AI) offer significant potential for strengthening manufacturing cybersecurity. Blockchain can improve supply-chain security by providing transparency and traceability, while quantum computing and AI enhance encryption and threat-detection capabilities. However, as manufacturers adopt these advanced technologies, cyber threats will also evolve. By adopting emerging technologies and remaining proactive, manufacturers can future-proof their cybersecurity strategies and protect against the next generation of attacks.

As the manufacturing sector undergoes digital transformation, cybersecurity resilience is more important than ever. From ransomware and phishing to insider threats, manufacturers face a growing array of cyber threats that can disrupt operations and compromise sensitive data. To build a resilient cybersecurity posture, manufacturers must assess risks, implement advanced security technologies, foster a cybersecurity culture, and prepare strong incident response plans.

The time to act is now. Manufacturers can no longer afford to be complacent about cybersecurity. By conducting a comprehensive cybersecurity risk assessment, they can identify vulnerabilities and take proactive steps to protect their factories, plants, and global supply chains. For further guidance, download our cybersecurity Workbook and start building a defense that is as strong as your production line.

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ComTec Solutions is a full-service technology services and ERP implementation and consulting company that has been providing advisory and technical expertise for manufacturers and engineering firms for nearly 30 years. Companies looking to improve productivity, elevate the customer experience, and accelerate financial growth find value in ComTec’s expertise. ComTec is a proud Certified Platinum Epicor partner dedicated to helping customers strategically align technology with their desired business outcomes with speed, agility, and confidence. To learn more, let’s talk!