Cybersecurity in Manufacturing – Building Cyber Resilience for Smart Factories

It’s 2025. A glucometer manufacturing company is running through its hub of 15 smart manufacturing units across the globe. The brand is also connected digitally with a range of vendors and suppliers. One fine day, however, the test strip supplier gets hit by a cyberattack. The harmful code then enters the supplier’s system of record, leading to production shutting down temporarily, after which it attempts to duplicate itself on all partners’ networks connected to that supplier.

Sounds fictional, doesn’t it? Well, it’s the reality that 79% of manufacturing houses believe cyber risk is a bigger risk for smart factories than for their traditional counterparts.

With most manufacturing houses investing heavily in digitalization and Industry 5.0, the perils of technical connectedness have also started showing through the process cracks.

This article will examine multiple aspects of cybersecurity in manufacturing, including why it’s so difficult to secure manufacturing houses, the different kinds of risks and their repercussions, and, lastly, ways to approach manufacturing industry cybersecurity.

Why Does Manufacturing Remain One of the Most Cyber-Attacked Industries?

Manufacturing remains one of the top targeted industries by cyber threat players in H1 2024, with over 377 confirmed reports of ransomware and database leaks hitting the first half of the year.

The one reason that surfaces as a justification for the event is that manufacturers’ investments in cybersecurity for Operational Technology (OT) have continuously lagged behind those of Information Technology (IT). This doesn’t fulfill the purpose of cybersecurity in the manufacturing industry, especially when the convergence of IT and OT is the need of the hour for manufacturers.

On the technology end, OT cybersecurity varies greatly from IT cybersecurity in a way that the installation of endpoint detection and response agents in ICS or SCADA equipment is not often feasible. Because of this, ICS and SCADA systems security starts relying solely on the network traffic monitoring between these systems. Collecting, storing, and tracking the volume of network data is an issue on both cost and tech point of view when you look into cybersecurity risks for the manufacturing sector on a microscopic view.

Another manufacturing cybersecurity challenge, specifically in OT security is the extremely capital-intensive essence of manufacturing where the equipment is expected to last for years, with limited software updates. The long tech life cycle merged with limited updates augments the probability of unpatched vulnerabilities in equipment software. To solve this, legacy equipment and infrastructure are integrated with additional logging and monitoring, which, in turn, place additional burden on the data infrastructure.

This lack of investment on top of an inherently massive data problem creates the dearth of manufacturing-based cybersecurity tools we are encountering today.

While the reason behind cyber security threats in the manufacturing industry cannot be easily pointed out since the growing advent of digitalization is opening hack, breach avenues; the type of risks that manufacturing units face can be gauged.

Here’s a list of cybersecurity risks for the manufacturing sector that can potentially affect production and cause reputation and financial losses:

• Vulnerability Exploitation: Smart factories face risks from various manufacturing cybersecurity challenges like weak authentication protocols, insufficient encryption, outdated software, and unsecured network connections across interconnected systems. These issues can open doors to unauthorized access, allowing intruders to take control of vital processes and sensitive data.
• Hacking and Data Theft: The interconnected systems in smart factories create entry points for hackers to infiltrate networks, steal confidential information, compromise intellectual property, and disrupt business operations.
• Malware Attacks: Malware presents a serious threat to smart factories, with the ability to infect systems, interfere with production processes, and cause extensive damage to both data and production lines.
• Denial-of-Service and Distributed Denial-of-Service Attacks: Such attacks can flood factory systems with excessive traffic, rendering them unavailable and interrupting critical operations, which can lead to prolonged downtime and financial repercussions.
• Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: In smart factories, where data flows continuously between devices and systems, MitM attacks can intercept these exchanges, altering or stealing information, which compromises both the integrity and confidentiality of the data.

Now that we have looked into the list of cyber threats to the manufacturing industry, let us explore the different ways to approach cybersecurity in the manufacturing industry.

Ways to Approach Cybersecurity for the Manufacturing Industry

As the manufacturing industry embraces smart technologies, the manufacturing cybersecurity process has become a critical concern for safeguarding interconnected systems. From cyber-physical systems (CPS) to IoT and IIoT devices, the complexity of securing a smart factory has grown exponentially. Cyber threats targeting these environments not only jeopardize sensitive data but also bring production to a halt, resulting in significant financial and operational losses.

Therefore, it’s crucial for organizations to adopt a multi-layered manufacturing cybersecurity process that addresses the unique challenges of the smart manufacturing landscape. Below are key strategies to help your organization fortify its cybersecurity posture and protect against evolving threats.

1. Achieve Full Visibility across CPS in Your OT Environment

A comprehensive view of your operational technology and cyber-physical systems, including IoT, IIoT, and building management systems, is essential for maintaining robust cybersecurity in the manufacturing industry. Yet, gaining this level of visibility is one of the most complex challenges for organizations.

One of the ways to address this is by implementing a CPS protection platform that offers customizable discovery methods –  this way, companies can ensure that no part of the network is left unchecked. These discovery methods can ultimately also be tailored to fit the specific needs of your manufacturing environment, making it easier to monitor and secure every system.

2. Seamlessly Integrate IT Tools and Workflows with CPS

Once visibility is achieved, the next step in the incorporation of cybersecurity and manufacturing is integrating IT tools and workflows with OT systems. In many cases, OT environments rely on outdated, proprietary technologies that traditional IT solutions cannot easily protect. This situation is further complicated by the fact that many OT devices cannot be safely patched or scanned due to the risk of operational downtime.

However, with a purpose-built CPS security tool, organizations can bridge the gap between IT and OT without disrupting day-to-day operations. This collaborative approach of integrating cyber security for advanced manufacturing allows existing IT tools to be extended across OT systems, improving risk management and fostering greater visibility across departments.

3. Expand Security Governance from IT to OT

In contrast to IT departments, OT environments often lack robust security measures due to a legacy focus on operational efficiency over security. Extending IT security governance into the OT space is essential for unifying cybersecurity protocols across the organization as this integration helps close security gaps and ensures that governance standards are applied consistently, providing a more resilient defense against cyber threats.

Over time, this shift from isolated security practices to a unified approach will help organizations achieve both operational and cyber resilience while merging cybersecurity and manufacturing more cohesively.

4. Implement Strong Encryption and Access Control Measures

Smart devices and interconnected networks have revolutionized manufacturing operations, but they also pose a significant security risk if not properly protected. Companies must take a proactive approach by implementing robust encryption measures to safeguard data in transit, moreover, industry-standard encryption algorithms should be used alongside access control mechanisms, such as digital signatures and cryptographic hashes, to ensure that only authorized personnel can interact with critical systems. These measures will help mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and ensure the integrity of real-time data in the incorporation of cybersecurity for the manufacturing industry journey.

Also Read: The Ultimate Advantages of Implementing Encryption Technology

5. Follow Industry Standards and Regulations

As organizations adopt new technologies in their smart factories, it is vital to comply with relevant industry regulations and standards. Failure to adhere to these regulations not only exposes companies to legal risks but also increases their vulnerability to cyber threats.

By following recommended guidelines, companies can develop and implement manufacturing industry cybersecurity best practices that safeguard their smart factories, ensuring long-term security and operational continuity.

Also Read: IT Compliance Regulations in the US

6. Utilize Intrusion Detection Systems

To effectively guard against cyberattacks, it is important to detect threats before they can spread through your network. By deploying advanced intrusion detection systems (IDS), companies can continuously monitor data flows, flagging any abnormal behavior or potential vulnerabilities.

Leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning, these systems can also analyze historical data to predict and prevent future threats. This proactive approach towards cybersecurity for manufacturers allows companies to identify and neutralize threats in real time, thereby minimizing the risk of extensive damage.

7. Train Employees and Establish a Robust Recovery Plan

Employees are often the first line of defense in cybersecurity for manufacturing, which is why ongoing training is essential. Workers need to be equipped with the knowledge to recognize security risks and respond accordingly, something which can be attended to through regular training, which ensures that they stay up to date on the latest security protocols and are prepared to report any suspicious activity.

In the event of a cyberattack, a well-developed cybersecurity in manufacturing recovery plan will enable the organization to restore operations quickly, reducing downtime and mitigating financial losses. Having this plan in place ensures that recovery is swift, limiting the overall impact on the business.

While the cybersecurity for the manufacturing industry approaches can help get you an idea of what preparations to do, what takes it up a notch is looking into the real-world manufacturing cybersecurity use cases. Let us look at them by dividing the approaches in three categories:

Detection

Unilever is implementing a long-term strategy aimed at:

• Creating a comprehensive digital asset registry for each plant to identify potential vulnerabilities.
• Strengthening digital networks within larger plant systems to contain any potential attacks and prevent them from spreading beyond the factory floor.

Assessment

Chevron is focused on:

• Scaling and automating its OT cybersecurity evaluations, using advanced insights to bolster protection measures.
• Standardizing performance metrics and reporting, allowing for better tracking of improvements and more precise measurement of the effectiveness of cybersecurity programs.

Monitoring

Taro Pharmaceuticals has deployed:

• A dedicated network monitoring solution designed to enhance the security of connected OT environments.
• An approach that provides full network visibility, helping to reduce operational disruptions while boosting overall network security.

As the manufacturing industry accelerates its digital transformation, the necessity for robust cybersecurity measures becomes increasingly clear. While each organization may face unique challenges, the core principles of cybersecurity remain universal – achieving full visibility, integrating seamless IT-OT solutions, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. However, what often sets resilient manufacturing units apart is their ability to partner with a cyber security services company that understands the intricacies of smart manufacturing environments.

By working with a team specialized in manufacturing IT services, organizations can not only enhance their threat detection and response capabilities but also build an infrastructure that minimizes the risk of operational downtime. Whether it’s deploying advanced intrusion detection systems or implementing real-time monitoring solutions, partnering with cybersecurity professionals ensures that your smart factory is protected from evolving cyber threats without compromising productivity.

Contact our experts for manufacturing cybersecurity consultation now!

FAQs

Q. How is cybersecurity used in manufacturing?

A. Cybersecurity in manufacturing is used to protect industrial control systems, operational technology, and information technology environments from cyber threats. It involves implementing security protocols to safeguard interconnected networks, IoT devices, and production systems from risks like malware, ransomware, and unauthorized access. By using solutions such as intrusion detection systems, encryption, and continuous monitoring, manufacturers can prevent data breaches and operational disruptions.

Q. What is the role of cybersecurity in the manufacturing industry?

A. The role of cyber security for advanced manufacturing is to safeguard the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of production systems and sensitive data. It ensures that the interconnected systems within smart factories are protected from cyberattacks, which could otherwise lead to financial losses, intellectual property theft, or production downtimes. Cybersecurity also helps manufacturers comply with industry standards and regulations, ensuring long-term operational resilience.

Q. What is the future of cybersecurity in the manufacturing industry?

A. The future of cybersecurity for manufacturing is moving towards increased automation and AI-driven solutions. With the rise of Industry 5.0 and smart factories, manufacturers will rely heavily on AI-powered threat detection and real-time monitoring systems to identify and neutralize cyber threats.

Additionally, blockchain technology, advanced encryption, and machine learning will play a critical role in ensuring data security and enhancing cybersecurity protocols across OT and IT systems.

Q. What are the benefits of cybersecurity in manufacturing?

A. Cybersecurity manufacturing offers several benefits, including protecting critical infrastructure from cyberattacks, minimizing downtime, safeguarding intellectual property, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. It also helps maintain trust with partners and customers by securing sensitive data and reducing the risk of production disruptions caused by cyber threats. Ultimately, strong cybersecurity for manufacturers measures lead to improved operational efficiency and long-term business continuity.

Q. What are some top cybersecurity trends in manufacturing?

A. Some of the top cyber security trends in manufacturing include the increased use of AI and machine learning for real-time threat detection, the adoption of zero-trust architecture to minimize attack surfaces, and the integration of blockchain for secure data sharing across supply chains.

Other cybersecurity for manufacturing trends include greater emphasis on securing IoT and IIoT devices, expanding security governance across OT environments, and using advanced encryption methods to protect sensitive data in transit.