In the interconnected landscape of today's digital world, every industry relies heavily on technology to streamline operations, boost productivity, and maintain a competitive edge. Factories, the backbone of manufacturing, are no exception. From assembly lines to supply chain management, technology plays a pivotal role in driving efficiency and innovation.

In recent years, cyber attackers have increasingly targeted factories, seeking to exploit vulnerabilities within their digital infrastructure. These attacks not only jeopardise operational continuity but also put sensitive data, intellectual property, and employee safety at risk.
 
Identifying and Addressing Common Vulnerabilities

As mentioned, this reliance on connectivity comes with a price—exposing them to a wide range of cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Let's delve into the most targeted vulnerabilities in factories and unveil the crucial security measures needed to defend against these threats:

1. Outdated Software: A Breeding Ground for Attacks
   Outdated software makes factories vulnerable. Attackers may easily exploit their known security weaknesses. To prevent these vulnerabilities, manufacturers must regularly update and maintain their software. Factory cybersecurity should include software patching and updates.

2. Weak Passwords: A Gateway for Unauthorised Access
   Weak passwords continue to plague industrial security. Weak passwords allow attackers to access sensitive data and systems. Strong password policies, such as mandating difficult and changed passwords, can prevent password-related breaches.

3. Unsecured Networks: A Gateway to Factory Assets
   Unsecured networks provide attackers access to factory systems and data. Factory operators should prioritise network security by using robust encryption protocols and firewalls, and routinely monitoring network traffic for suspicious activities. These steps improve manufacturing security.

4. Unpatched Vulnerabilities: A Golden Opportunity for Exploitation
   Factory system vulnerabilities, be it in insecure remote access systems, vulnerable industrial control system software or even outdated legacy equipment, are an attacker's paradise. They exploit these weaknesses to gain unauthorised access and disrupt operations. Timely patch management and vulnerability screening reduce vulnerability risk. Factory procedures must quickly identify, assess, and fix system vulnerabilities.

5. Poor Configuration: A Breach Waiting to Happen
   Attackers can take advantage of poorly designed systems and devices. Security settings, access limits, and user rights can leave industrial infrastructure vulnerable to intrusions. To reduce exploitation, factories should configure devices and systems according to security best practices and industry standards.

6. Human Error: A Vulnerability Amplified
   Many cyber attacks involve human error. Phishing emails and harmful attachments can fool employees. Human error can be reduced by educating employees about the current cyber threats, emphasising watchful behaviour, and teaching them how to recognise and report suspicious activity.

7. Physical Access: Open Doors to Digital Vulnerabilities
   Physical entry points make factories vulnerable to attacks. By breaking in or using social engineering, attackers can access crucial systems. Factory access controls, surveillance, and security should prohibit unauthorised physical access to important locations.

8. Supply Chain Attacks: Exploiting Weakest Links
   Attackers use supply chain interconnections to access manufacturing systems and data. They use lax suppliers, contractors, or partners to break into the factory's digital infrastructure. Factories must assess their supply chain partners' security and risk management practices.

9. Third-Party Vendors: Entrusted Partners or Potential Risks?
   IT support, maintenance, and other services are often outsourced by factories. However, vendors without adequate security can expose vulnerabilities. Third-party vendor security audits, compliance with industry standards, and tight contractual duties can reduce risks.

10. IoT Devices: The New Frontier of Vulnerabilities
    The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in factories brings unprecedented convenience but also new vulnerabilities.

“Gartner Predicts By 2025 Cyber Attackers Will Have Weaponised Operational Technology (OT) Environments to Successfully Harm or Kill Humans”

Understanding and addressing the vulnerabilities that cyber attackers target in factories is paramount to ensuring the security and resilience of your manufacturing processes.

To delve even deeper into the challenges faced by the manufacturing industry and gain valuable insights into mitigating OT threats, we encourage you to download the white paper titled "Top 3 Reasons Why Automotive Manufacturers Need A Cybersecurity Strategy To Reduce OT Threats" by Tenable. Get a better look at typical challenges in real-life manufacturing and equip yourself with the knowledge needed to safeguard your factory's operational technology.

Remember, a proactive approach to cybersecurity is crucial in the face of evolving threats. Let us join forces to protect the backbone of manufacturing and ensure a secure future for factories worldwide.

Download the white paper here: