In the realm of manufacturing, the once highly-touted security measure known as the “air gap” has been rendered obsolete in the face of advancing digital connectivity. What was once an effective technique to isolate technology from external cyber threats no longer holds the same level of protection as it once did in the era of floppy disks and serial connections.
The merging of operational technology (OT) with information technology (IT) has blurred the boundaries between previously segregated systems, giving rise to a more intricate cybersecurity landscape. While the concept of the air gap traditionally pertained to technical processes, it has also been extended to encompass the workforce. Many employees in the manufacturing sector operate without formal identities, email addresses, or any technological tools. Companies in the manufacturing sector that neglect to integrate their people, processes, and technology are at a disadvantage in terms of competitiveness. However, bridging these gaps is no easy feat.
The challenge of integrating technology and people is not exclusive to manufacturing; it is a challenge that spans across various industries. Healthcare professionals struggle with the necessity for rapid and often chaotic access to shared devices, while the education sector faces the challenge of providing digital identities to young students who may not possess email addresses. The universal demand for secure, efficient, and inclusive technology solutions underscores the imperative for innovative, adaptive, and creative approaches to cybersecurity.
One of the critical challenges in the manufacturing sector lies in managing the identities of employees who require access to cloud-based or external applications. Balancing the necessity of these identities being adequately managed without overwhelming the IT department is vital. For instance, a user on a factory floor may need an email address or a secondary device for efficient password resets. The need to uphold security while fostering productivity complicates the search for solutions that strike a balance between user-friendliness and robust security protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
In many manufacturing environments, shared devices are indispensable tools. These devices must cater to multiple users while maintaining secure and individualized access controls. Managing access to shared devices poses a challenge, especially when it comes to preventing unauthorized access and ensuring that all device activity is accurately tracked and attributed.
The manufacturing sector frequently relies on temporary workers or experiences high turnover rates among employees. The rapid onboarding and offboarding of employees present a unique challenge in upholding cybersecurity standards. Temporary workers may require immediate access to systems and data, but issuing individual credentials can be time-consuming and risky. Moreover, the constant need to update and deactivate credentials due to high turnover rates strains IT resources.
Businesses must adopt a holistic approach that addresses both technological and human factors to effectively combat cybersecurity challenges. Key strategies include implementing robust access controls, planning for Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) deployment, and automating digital access management tasks to streamline processes and free up resources for other critical areas.
As the cybersecurity landscape in manufacturing continues to evolve, the underlying truth remains clear: adaptation is imperative. The integration of IT and OT presents both challenges and opportunities to redefine and redesign security frameworks. By embracing flexible access solutions, preparing for MFA implementation, and automating digital access management, manufacturers and industries alike can navigate the ever-changing terrain of cyber threats successfully.
In conclusion, robust cybersecurity in the manufacturing sector underscores the importance of balancing technological innovation with human-centric strategies. Prioritizing convenience and security ensures that employees at all levels have seamless and secure access without compromising productivity. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, maintaining vigilance, security, and a forward-thinking approach will be key to staying ahead of cyber threats in the manufacturing industry.