Key Takeaways
Out of the top ten industries, the manufacturing sector accounted for 25.7% of cyberattacks for three years running. Combining operational technology (OT) with information technology (IT) under Industry 4.0 has produced fresh cyber threat possibilities.
The increase in cyberattacks on factories recently highlights the importance of robust cybersecurity policies. Our experience shows that manufacturers fall behind sectors like healthcare in terms of setting up and combining cybersecurity measures, which makes them simpler targets for hackers.
Cyber incidents have surged sharply in manufacturing companies during the past year. One significant incident saw attackers focusing on a top automobile manufacturer, pilfering confidential information and upsetting manufacturing operations with a ransomware assault.
Another major event occurred at a pharmaceutical company when private formulations and patient information leaked. This hack generated questions about corporate espionage and patient privacy.
Manufacturers having recorded events throughout the past year comprise:
The integration of OT and IT systems enhances the attack surface for cybercriminals, therefore posing unique cybersecurity challenges for manufacturers. The issue gets more severe with the demand for organized security procedures and qualified cybersecurity experts.
Manufacturers have to use a multi-faceted strategy to cybersecurity governance if they are to overcome these obstacles. A good program governance approach includes:
Increasing visibility of OT assets is one sensible approach. Manufacturers can then apply protective measures for technological assets by keeping precise inventories of them together with related hazards. Furthermore important are targeted risk analyses and application of priority-based enhancements.
Matching corporate objectives with cybersecurity initiatives is still another important step. By combining these two areas, security becomes not only a consideration but also a major factor guiding operational decisions.
Manufacturers and cybersecurity professionals should absolutely collaborate. By means of sharing information and best practices, the industry can stay ahead of threats and create better security frameworks. Important establishments consist of:
Cybersecurity systems known as honeypots are decoys meant to draw attackers away from approved targets. For human threat actors and malicious software including ransomware, think of them as lures or traps.
Manufacturing companies are using IoT and automation, which enlarge their attack surface, more and more. By guiding attackers and compiling data on their techniques, honeypots and honeytokens help safeguard digital resources.
Benefits of Using Honeypots:
Advantages of Honeytokens:
By use of honeypots and honeytokens, industrial companies can identify risks early on and react more successfully, therefore mitigating the damage of cybersecurity events. The data acquired with these instruments can enable improved security policies.
Honeypots and honeytokens should be positioned deliberately to appear like actual, valued items if maximum efficacy is sought. Regular data analysis from these instruments is absolutely vital.
Though they have value, honeypots and honeytokens should be component of a more comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. This strategy should call for frequent updates, staff training, and robust incident response techniques. Companies have to make sure using these instruments does not bring fresh legal problems or vulnerabilities.
Honeypot and honeytokens deployment calls for rigorous legal issue analysis including privacy regulations and authorization for deployment. Data has to be handled safely; corporate stakeholders—including legal counsel—should examine and approve deployment policies.
The cybersecurity services offered by LBMC are catered to the particular difficulties facing the industrial industry. Combining OT and IT exposes manufacturers especially to cyberattacks. The World Economic Forum explores the part cybersecurity plays in advanced manufacturing resilience for more reading on the difficulties and techniques for safe production.
LBMC provides risk identification and reduction tools including honeypots and honeytokens. Our staff guarantees continued security for your operations, intellectual property, and client records. Work with us to keep ahead of cyberthreats and provide a strong cybersecurity basis for your manufacturing company.
Content provided by Adam Nunn.
Adam Nunn is a Senior Manager in LBMC’s Cybersecurity division with extensive experience leading teams to enhance compliance and security. He transforms cybersecurity postures from reactive to proactive, aligning organizations with national and international security frameworks. As a respected advisor, Adam builds trust and fosters collaboration across all levels.
