Digital transformation efforts have revolutionised the manufacturing industry, connecting production with IT systems and IIoT technologies to drive productivity and efficiency. Yet this progress brings an alarming rise in cyber risks. Since 2019, manufacturing organisations have faced a 300% surge in attacks, with one in four global incidents targeting manufacturers. These figures highlight the growing vulnerabilities of the sector, underscoring the urgency to understand the significant cybersecurity challenges faced by manufacturers today.
why manufacturing cybersecurity is under pressure
The manufacturing sector faces relentless pressure from threat actors eager to exploit weak links. Recent reports reveal that one in four manufacturers had to shut down industrial operations after a cyberattack, while over 70% faced an incident in the past year. Of these, 25% exploited IT system vulnerabilities and “infostealing” malware attacks surged by 84%. With intellectual property, production uptime, and customer trust at stake, cyberattacks in manufacturing are now more damaging than ever.top cyberattacks in manufacturing
Manufacturers face diverse and evolving threats from hacktivists, cybercriminals, state-backed groups, RaaS, and insiders. The most critical forms of cyberattacks in manufacturing include:
- Remote access misuse through compromised vendor credentials or maintenance teams.
- Malware disrupting industrial management and supervisory control tools.
- Production line disruptions that reduce uptime and operational efficiency.
- Supply chain compromises via hacked software updates or hardware tampering.
- Theft of intellectual property and IIoT data, including design specifications.
- Ransomware campaigns in the manufacturing industry, such as LockerGoga and Snake halting factory output.
- Insider threats that sabotage systems or leak sensitive information.
- Phishing and social engineering targeting employees and contractors.
- Nation-state attacks exploiting geopolitical tensions to target manufacturers.
Infosys BPM offers advanced manufacturing BPM services that help manufacturers strengthen defences and improve resilience against cyber risks. Infosys BPM brings expertise across IT, Operational Technology (OT), and IIoT environments, enabling manufacturers to embrace Industry 5.0 by mitigating cyber threats. The services also reduce downtime and safeguard intellectual property with integrated manufacturing cybersecurity solutions.
how to prevent cyberattacks in manufacturing operations
Organisations face unique challenges that leave them vulnerable to cyberattacks in manufacturing. Key barriers include:[3]
- Conflicting priorities between IT and OT teams.
- Unclear responsibilities and a lack of in-house expertise.
- Absence of a unified governance framework.
- Outdated legacy systems still in operation.
- Increasing device connectivity and visibility.
- Reliance on third-party software and open-source technologies.
- Navigating complex regulatory demands.
To overcome these challenges and fortify manufacturing cybersecurity, organisations must adopt best practices that deliver practical and lasting protection.
modernising legacy systems
Legacy equipment and outdated control systems often lack basic security. Updating these systems or adding protective layers helps reduce vulnerabilities and secure production sites.
strengthening operational resilience
Building resilience in OT systems requires segmentation, monitoring, and backup processes. This ensures continuity when cyberattacks in manufacturing attempt to disrupt operations.
bridging IT and OT priorities
Unified security architectures bring IT and OT teams together. Shared objectives and integrated monitoring provide stronger, enterprise-wide defences.
meeting compliance requirements
Complex industry regulations demand proactive alignment. A structured compliance framework avoids penalties and strengthens trust across supply chains.
adopting zero-trust models
Zero Trust strategies restrict access based on verification, limiting risks from insiders and compromised accounts in connected environments.
preparing for incidents
Effective incident response plans reduce recovery times. Regular drills and cyber resilience frameworks ensure organisations stay prepared for sudden breaches.
empowering frontline staff
Employees on the factory floor are critical defenders. Awareness training reduces risks from phishing, social engineering, and poor password practices.
securing supply chains
Supplier vulnerabilities can expose operations. Manufacturers must audit partners, set cybersecurity standards, and verify compliance across their supply ecosystem.
implementing strong controls
From multi-factor authentication to continuous monitoring, strong controls form the backbone of any manufacturing cybersecurity strategy.
engaging leadership
Active involvement from the C-suite ensures budgets, priorities, and culture align with security goals, making protection a strategic priority.
leveraging cloud technologies
Cloud adoption offers scalable protection, continuous monitoring, and compliance support for manufacturers modernising their digital ecosystems.
maintaining a robust security posture
Regular audits, clear roadmaps, and adoption of frameworks like NIST or ISO help organisations keep a strong security posture over time.
investing in insurance
Cyber insurance mitigates financial risks and provides additional protection against costly downtime from ransomware attacks in the manufacturing industry.
conclusion
The manufacturing sector faces an era of unprecedented digital growth, but rising cyberattacks in manufacturing and increasing instances of ransomware attacks in the manufacturing industry highlight its vulnerabilities. Strengthening manufacturing cybersecurity is no longer optional; organisations must prioritise proactive defences, robust governance, and employee awareness. By embedding these practices and continuously evolving their strategies, manufacturers can prevent disruptions, safeguard intellectual property, and ensure operational resilience against complex cyber threats.
