Cybercriminals keep getting smarter. What worked a month ago may not keep out the latest criminals which is why turn-key Cybersecurity doesn’t work. As the manufacturing industry continues to adopt new technologies to improve efficiency and productivity, the use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has become increasingly common. However, with the rise of IoT devices, new cybersecurity threats have emerged, posing a significant risk to the manufacturing industry.
IoT devices can be vulnerable to cyber attacks and present new entry points for attackers to gain access to a manufacturer’s network by way of:
Malware attacks: Malware attacks are a common method used by cybercriminals to gain access to a manufacturer’s network through IoT devices. Attackers can infect IoT devices with malware, giving them access to sensitive data and control over the devices themselves.
Botnets: Botnets are networks of compromised devices that can be used to launch large-scale attacks. Attackers can use botnets to launch distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks or to spread malware across a manufacturer’s network.
Ransomware attacks: Ransomware attacks can be particularly devastating for manufacturing companies that rely on critical data to operate. Attackers can use ransomware to encrypt a manufacturer’s data and demand a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key.
Supply chain attacks: The interconnected nature of the supply chain in the manufacturing industry makes it more vulnerable to cyber attacks. Attackers can infiltrate the supply chain through IoT devices and gain access to a manufacturer’s network.
Lack of security updates: Many IoT devices are not designed with security in mind and may not receive regular security updates. This can leave them vulnerable to known vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit.
To protect against these threats, manufacturers need to take a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity.
- Implement strong access controls
- Regularly update IoT devices
- Segment their network
- Invest in cybersecurity solutions
- Provide regular employee training
As the manufacturing industry continues to adopt new IoT devices, it is essential to be aware of the potential cybersecurity threats that these devices can pose.
Some companies invest nothing while others invest very little and a select few invest heavily to protect their assets. Where do you fall?
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