As all industries continue to evolve and rely more heavily on technology to drive efficiency and profits, cybercriminals continue to find ways to exploit vulnerabilities in organizations’ networks. The consequences can devastate your business, damaging your operation and credibility with your partners and clients. Cybersecurity in manufacturing businesses is a constant challenge due to the continued use of cloud-based systems, connected supply chains, and the Internet of Things (IoT). With all of the potential entry points for attackers, manufacturers must be diligent in protecting their operations from threats.
Cybersecurity in Manufacturing: 5 Practical Operational Concerns
1. Remote Access
With remote access to machines and systems, manufacturing companies are opening themselves up to potential cyber threats. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in remote access systems, gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data and disrupting production.
2. Internet of Things (IoT)
As more devices connect to the internet, the risk of IoT-related attacks increases. Malware can infect devices, causing them to malfunction or provide unauthorized access to sensitive information.
3. Supply Chain Attacks
These attacks can occur when third-party vendors or contractors compromise sensitive data or systems by having poor or no cyber safety measures in place. Manufacturing companies must ensure that all vendors and contractors in their supply chain adhere to strict cybersecurity protocols.
4. Data Breaches
Cybersecurity in manufacturing companies must protect all sensitive data from unauthorized access and use. Along with monitoring against threats, all businesses must ensure their employees are properly trained on potential threats, as 88% of data breaches are employee mistakes.
5. Insider Threats
Internal threats can occur when employees or contractors intentionally or unintentionally compromise sensitive information or systems. Companies must implement strict access controls limiting access to authorized employees and training programs to reduce these risks.
How Can the Manufacturing Industry Protect Itself?
The reality is that a single cyber attack can disrupt production lines, compromise product quality, and even put lives at risk by disrupting safety measures. Manufacturing companies must have cybersecurity strategies in place to monitor and safeguard against all possible threats. Here are 7 ways you can protect your business from threats:
1. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication
Multiple forms of identification, such as passwords and biometric data, are required to access systems and devices.
2. Regularly Update Software
Keep software up-to-date with the latest security patches to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.
3. Implement Access Controls
Limit access to sensitive information and systems to authorized personnel only
4. Monitor Systems
Regularly monitor systems for suspicious activity and respond immediately to potential or actual security incidents.
5. Train Employees
Provide regular cybersecurity training for employees to educate them on the importance of cybersecurity and how to prevent attacks.
6. Conduct Regular Security Audits
Conduct regular security audits to identify vulnerabilities and implement corrective measures.
7. Implement an Incident Response Plan
Develop an incident response plan to respond quickly and effectively during or immediately following a security breach.
In addition to implementing and applying these internal security measures, hiring an outside cybersecurity provider such as TCI Technologies to oversee and manage them is beneficial. We can provide your organization with expert guidance and protection against cyber threats 24 hours a day and help prevent costly data breaches by identifying and correcting vulnerabilities in your systems and network.
Help Keep Your Production Line Moving with Cybersecurity in Place
Implementing cybersecurity in manufacturing companies will withstand the threats of cyberattacks. In addition, following these recommendations can maintain their level of operations, adhere to strict deadlines, and continue to increase customer satisfaction.
