Infographic Take a Holistic Approach to Securing Connected Manufacturing
As manufacturing facilities become more and more connected, IT security must keep up.
By Insight Editor / 8 Feb 2021
Although the Internet of Things (IoT), the cloud and remote work open up numerous possibilities for businesses, these technologies also give cybercriminals potential openings. The increased connectivity of today’s IT landscape means manufacturers need to prioritize cybersecurity alongside innovation.
Accessibility note: The infographic is transcribed below the graphic.
Take a Holistic Approach to Securing Connected Manufacturing
More connected = more vulnerable
Smart manufacturing, or Industry 4.0, depends on digitally connecting people, processes and technology. It's opened up a whole new world of possibilities for companies — but cybercriminals see an opening too.
Manufacturing consistently ranks in the top 10 most cyberattacked industries.
Here are some potential reasons why:
Industrial espionage
This accounts for the vast majority of attacks on manufacturers. Competitors (or state-affiliated threat actors) target proprietary information about processes and products, then use it to skip the research & development process, and produce a cheaper version of the product.
Money
Ransomware is always a popular choice for hackers looking to made tens of thousands of dollars by holding manufacturing systems and data hostage.
Political motivations
State-sponsored groups may try to cause infrastructure or economic damage by attacking critical manufacturing processes.
Fame
Headline-grabbing incidents give hackers the chance to promote their skills.
As the threat landscape evolves and attack vectors multiply, modern manufacturers must take a holistic approach to cybersecurity.
Don't neglect these areas:
Cloud
As cloud adoption rates quickly rise, manufacturers' IT security has to keep pace.
Machines
Manufacturers are adding automation technology, such as robotics, to IoT networks all the time. This web of growing connections can present a real security risk if not properly secured.
Devices
Remote work is the new norm, even in manufacturing. But the devices employees use to work from anywhere can also be an easy way for hackers to gain access to the network.
People
Threat actors purposefully target human employees. Why? Because most cybersecurity training is weak and inconsistent. Every single person with access to your systems should be trained to be aware of their digital surroundings and recognize potential threats.
Insight and our partners help manufacturers secure operations as they grow, creating tailor-made solutions to solve your unique challenges.
