The Critical Role of Cyber Security in Manufacturing

Is Your Manufacturing Facility Cyber Secure in the Digital Era?

The manufacturing industry is increasingly adopting smart manufacturing practices with unprecedented levels of automation using data and artificial intelligence (AI). However, this surge in digital technologies also introduces heightened cyber complexities to factory operations. 

In 2023, manufacturing emerged as the industry most targeted by cyberattacks globally, accounting for a quarter of all incidents worldwide. With the average cost of a data breach hovering around 4.5 million dollars, it underscores the urgent necessity for prioritizing cybersecurity measures within manufacturing. Even beyond financial losses, manufacturers facing breaches also contend with production disruptions, compromised product quality, reputational harm, and potential regulatory violations. 

At T2Tech, we recognize the critical nature of these challenges. That’s why we specialize in pinpointing vulnerabilities and bolstering cybersecurity customized to the distinctive requirements of manufacturing enterprises. Our services encompass consulting, implementation, and managed solutions, aimed at fortifying your business against cyber threats, ensuring uninterrupted operations, and safeguarding your invaluable assets. 

Smart Factories and The Rise of Cyber Crime   

With the increasing push toward smart manufacturing, cybersecurity has taken center stage in the operational risk profile of manufacturers. So much so, that a study by Deloitte shows that 48% of manufacturers consider such operational risk as an impediment to smart factory initiatives. 

Many manufacturing companies are seeing an increase in cyber-related incidents associated with the control systems used to manage industrial operations. These control systems make up the operational technologies (OT) that allow facilities to operate. While connectivity offers benefits like heightened productivity, quicker detection and resolution of quality issues, and enhanced collaboration across functions, it also amplifies the potential vulnerabilities of smart factories. This vulnerability arises from the misalignment between IT and OT. 

Manufacturers are striving to integrate IT and OT to boost operational efficiency and overall performance. However, achieving synchronization across areas where people, processes, and technology intersect between IT and OT remains a challenge. Operational leaders on the factory floor typically make decisions about OT systems with minimal involvement from corporate IT and security departments. Consequently, a variety of technologies with differing security capabilities must be integrated and managed within existing IT network infrastructures. 

Integrating advanced technologies into OT networks necessitates sophisticated cybersecurity standards. Yet, a significant portion of manufacturers lack the cyber capabilities to secure these vital systems. Given the swift adoption of new technologies in factories through smart factory initiatives, IT and OT leaders may find themselves ill-prepared to address emerging threats. 

At T2Tech, we specialize in helping manufacturers optimize their cybersecurity infrastructures, ensuring they are fortified against evolving cyber threats. Our approach begins with a comprehensive cybersecurity maturity assessment, allowing us to identify vulnerabilities and areas for improvement. We then work closely with your team to establish a formal cybersecurity governance program that integrates considerations for both IT and OT environments. Using a risk-based approach, we prioritize actions to address the most critical threats and vulnerabilities. Our team collaborates with you to implement robust security measures, including access controls, network segmentation, intrusion detection systems, and incident response plans.  

Together, we will build a proactive and resilient cybersecurity program that safeguards your manufacturing operations against evolving threats and ensures the integrity and continuity of your business, setting the foundation for a successful future.