Over the past few years, the manufacturing industry has been targeted by cybercriminals — from the well-known SolarWinds hack to the attack on one of the largest meat processing companies in the world. The increasing focus on manufacturers by cybercriminals is down to the industry’s growing reliance on digital tech and their move toward a digital transformation. With more than a third of manufacturers realizing better business value from spending on IT, digitalization is proceeding at warp speed which is both good — and bad.

The good is obvious. Manufacturers who adopt digitally led strategies often experience greater operational efficiencies and a stronger competitive stance. However, if these same manufacturers do not also take cybersecurity into account when growing their digital profile, they could be at risk for serious impacts. 

Three Cybersecurity Trends Manufacturers Must Watch in 2022

If 2020 and 2021 are any indication, manufacturers must brace for an influx of evolving cyberthreats. But understanding is the better part of preparation, so here are some of the cybersecurity issues of which manufacturers need to be aware.

The Manufacturing Industry is a Favorite Target for Ransomware

A recent report shows that the manufacturing industry, alongside construction concerns, are the top focus for ransomware attacks. In part, this may be due to the very nature of the business — with more of a project focus and a lack of recurring revenues, there is an inherent difficulty in finding the budget dollars to invest in in-house IT staffing or service partners on a monthly fee basis. Because of this business structure, it is more difficult for manufacturers to focus on non-core expenses such as proper IT assistance or cybersecurity because it comes at the expense of their operations.

It is because cybercriminals understand this mind set so well that they can successfully deploy ransomware among manufacturers. Manufacturers who are not paying attention to their security strategy typically do not have the proper defenses to defend against and mitigate any incursions. 

The Need to Take a Closer Look at the Convergence of IT/OT

Operational efficiency and customer service are at the core of successful manufacturing organizations. In a bid to improve these factors, many manufacturers are bringing together their IT and OT (Operational Technology) systems. But the acquisition and deployment of OT structures are often determined by managers on the factory floor without input from any cybersecurity team or IT experts, creating an inherent weakness. Plus, the proliferation of IoT devices is further complicating the line between IT and OT, which may cause the emergence of new vulnerabilities and weaknesses.

The Ongoing Effects of the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic pushed many industries online faster than they planned, leading to hybrid environments such as the remote work setup and remote monitoring of facilities and operations. Even though these activities inherently open up vulnerable backdoors to sensitive information, many manufacturers are failing to apply proper cybersecurity strategies. Other inroads, such as those created when manufacturers adopt software from third-party vendors to gain access to advanced automation capabilities, can also contribute to an increased probability of cyberattack as hackers focus on software providers to cast a wider net of victims, i.e., all those who are using a specific software. 

Need Strong Cybersecurity Protection? Call Blue Technologies 

Cybersecurity is a complex and multi-faceted area that changes as cybercriminals evolve new strategies for making inroads to your sensitive data. At Blue Technologies, we have assembled a team of cybersecurity and IT experts that have their fingers on the pulse of industry, bringing you leading edge knowledge and technology to win the fight against cyberattack.

We offer a comprehensive suite of services — from assessment of vulnerabilities and weaknesses, to deploying strategies, creating a disaster recovery plan, and ensuring business continuity in the event that a breach happens. 

Stay protected with leading edge cybersecurity knowledge and technology. Contact a Blue Technologies consultant and learn how our team can keep your manufacturing facility safe from the predatory actions of cybercriminals.