The use of modern technology has been rapidly increasing in the manufacturing industry. It improves efficiency, quality, and production speed. The risk of cyber-attacks has increased, too. Cyber attacks can halt production, cause delays, and damage equipment. In worse cases, there can be data theft, questions about safety, and financial losses. You need to be aware of these threats to enhance safety measures. You should contract an IT company to secure your business network. They will take steps to protect your business from different kinds of cyber attacks.
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10 Cyber Security Concerns You Should Know About
Cyber security has become a major concern for businesses. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, about 22% of businesses reported cybersecurity incidents in 2020. Knowing the different risks helps with prevention. Here are the most common risks for manufacturing companies.
Network intrusion and Data Breaches
This is among the major manufacturing cyber threats. Unauthorised users try to intrude on your network. They target systems to steal sensitive data. This includes customer information and intellectual data.
If they can access it, they can perform various harmful actions. They can also remotely shut down the operations. It can disrupt the whole manufacturing facility. Product hours get wasted, and you may face financial loss. You have to take security steps, especially if your data is stored in the cloud.
Data breaching or losing data is another common problem. More industries are adapting to AI and ML technology. This optimises the operation and increases production speed. However, there are some risks regarding data. Attackers try to exploit vulnerabilities in AI and ML algorithms. They can alter the behaviour of the system by feeding manipulated data. Here are a few safety steps you can take to increase network and data security.
- Use strong and complex passwords. Make it a habit to change them regularly.
- Educate your employees about various methods of cyber threats.
- Keep all systems and software up-to-date with the latest security patches.
- Limit access to sensitive data and systems to authorised personnel only.
Stealing Intellectual Property
Intellectual property theft is a serious concern in the manufacturing industry. It includes designs, patents, trade secrets, and technical data.
Stealing of such information can be alarming for your business. It undermines your competitive edge. You lose your unique innovations, which can lead to more competition and financial loss. Your rival companies can produce the same product at a cheaper price. This can reduce your market share as well as consumer trust. Your reputation also gets affected.
Cyber attackers use various methods to steal IPs. It can be phishing attacks, malware, insider threats, or exploiting vulnerabilities. Data plays a vital role in business, especially if you possess unique models. Extra steps should be taken to strengthen the security against data theft.
Malicious Inside Users
This is a big problem that every organisation needs to be careful of. You can have a strong security system to shield your network from external attacks. But how about inside threats? Someone with access to the system can try to hack the entire system. Or, they may install malicious software and create bugs in the network.
Employees can be influenced by such attacks for various reasons, such as:
- To take revenge for some personal clash with the authority
- If they are upset for not having the desired promotion or pay rise
- They can be bribed by outsiders
- Or simply to defame your reputation, etc.
Even big companies like Tesla, Yahoo, and Pegasus airlines also suffered from this. Tesla’s former member leaked the personal information of employees. This harmed the reputation of the company and also affected the safety and security of the employees. According to Quartz, this could lead to a $3.3 billion fine for data leaks.
To avoid such incidents in your organisation, you must take steps to monitor user activity. The background investigation can help when hiring new employees.
Supply Chain Attacks
Technology has influenced the manufacturing supply chains. IoT devices, AI, and blockchain have improved the system. However, the risk of cyberattacks is a concern. More devices are now connected to your supply chain. This increases the risk of hacking. If they can get access to any connected computer in the network, criminals can do many things. They can install software to attack the network to cause damage or steal data.
Attackers often target the supply chain vulnerabilities. They infiltrate a supplier’s system to snake malicious codes. This code can steal data and damage finished products. Therefore, you have to be careful when working with suppliers.
Insecure Industrial Control Systems
You have to rely on an industrial control system to manage machinery and processes. It is the connection of computers and networks that run your factories. A breach in ICS security can lead to severe consequences. It can halt production, damage equipment, data theft, and increase safety hazards. This can also harm your employees. Workers working on the machines can get injured by machine malfunction.
Phishing Attacks on Individuals
Phishing scams are commonly used tactics to fool authentic users. They are often sent emails that look like a trusted source. Once a user shares their credentials, cybercriminals can use them to access the business network. Cyber attackers often try this method to steal valuable data.
Phishing attack is a comparatively easy method for attackers. You can also avoid the trouble by making your employees aware of it. Arrange employee training and inform them about various tactics of phishing attacks. They should not trust unreliable emails and must not share their credentials. Attackers can gain full control of the system and use it to cause disruption in your business.
Human error in Your Organisation
Sometimes, human errors can put your business in danger. Someone within the network clicking on a malicious link can weaken the security. They fall victim to phishing emails and other techniques. Also, downloading malicious files can cause harm as well. You must take the necessary steps to prevent human errors. This puts your business at great risk.
- Arrange training for employees. Suggest they use strong passwords and change them regularly.
- Passwords must not be guessable, like using names, dates, etc.
- Avoid using unnecessary websites from business networks.
Ransomware Attacks
Cyber attackers often introduce malware to your system. They gain access to your computer or the network. Then, they take action to prevent you from using the system. Your production gets to halt, and to get rid of the problem, you have to give them a ransom.
Manufacturing companies often overlook ransomware attacks. They consider it a minor threat. However, they can sometimes cause a lot of trouble. You will have to reprogram the infected devices. It requires expert engineers to do so. It adds cost, and future attack chances remain. This can also lead to data loss and machine damage.
You must take the necessary steps to avoid the attacks in the first place. Enhance the security of every computer related to the network system.
Social Engineering
Again, this is also related to your insider threats. Your employees may meet people on social media who appear trustworthy. They can provoke your employees to share sensible data. Malicious links can be used as well. Social engineering can lead to data breaches and physical damage to the system.
IoT Vulnerabilities
IoT vulnerabilities are weaknesses in the Internet of Things devices. It allows unauthorised access or control. These vulnerabilities can result from insecure configurations, outdated firmware, or lack of encryption. It makes IoT devices susceptible to hacking and data breaches.
How to Prevent Cyber Security Attacks?
Cyber attacks not only cause financial loss but also affect your reputation. Therefore, you should take some steps to prevent the attacks:
Train Your Staff
This should be your number 1 priority. Train your staff on cybersecurity best practices. Help them recognise phishing emails and suspicious activities. You should also focus on developing a sense of ethics and morals among them to reduce data security risks.
Keep Your Software And Systems Updated
New updates often come with advanced security systems. Attackers find it difficult to break through new technologies. In contrast, outdated versions are prone to being hacked. Therefore, make sure all the software and devices within the network are up-to-date.
Focus on Endpoint Protection
You need to ensure all the devices in your organisation are protected. Attackers can intrude through a single device and affect the whole system. Prioritising individual devices can improve operational technology security.
Use A Firewall and Other Smart Manufacturing Security
A firewall monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic. It follows some predetermined security rules. Suspicious users are prevented from accessing the system. Incorporating fire within your system is an effective approach to blocking potential threats. You should also incorporate other security systems to protect your data and network.
Limit Access to Control Systems Security
Make sure not everyone has access to your network. This can compromise the security. You have to limit user privileges to only what is necessary for their role. Multi-factor authentication is a safe way to control unauthorised access. Regularly review the system and always update the security system after laying off employees.
Final Thought
Cyber security risks are high for manufacturing at all times. You can face different types of errors and have to be prepared to face them. Professional digital security services can help you with the cyber risk management issue. ITTechbox is an expert solution for providing network security. We have IT professionals who are committed to ensuring data safety and preventing harmful attacks. We utilise the latest technologies to safeguard your valuable data and ensure integrity and confidentiality.
