The manufacturing sector has benefited greatly from advancements in connectivity and automation, leading to increased efficiency and productivity. However, these technological advancements have also opened up the industry to serious cyber security threats. Recent data from Datacentrix partner, Check Point, revealed that manufacturing was the most targeted sector for cyber attacks in the third quarter of 2024, with 30% of all reported ransomware attacks occurring in this sector globally during that period.
Of particular concern was the impact of cyber threats on the African region, where organizations faced an alarming 90% increase in attacks compared to the previous year. Cyber criminals are exploiting vulnerabilities in manufacturing supply chains, targeting not only manufacturers but also suppliers, logistics providers, and critical infrastructure. This highlights the urgent need for proactive cyber security measures in the manufacturing sector.
Attacks in manufacturing can come from various sources, including energy suppliers, logistics providers, and shop floor equipment. These attacks could involve ransomware, phishing, distributed denial of service (DDOS) attacks, malware infiltration, and industrial espionage. These attacks can disrupt operations, compromise safety, and lead to financial losses for organizations in the manufacturing sector.
To address these challenges, global standards such as the International Electrotechnical Commission’s (IEC) 62443 and the International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO) 27001 have been developed. These standards promote comprehensive cyber security practices across the manufacturing value chain, covering development, production, and distribution processes. ISO 27001 helps organizations identify and address risks holistically, while IEC 62443 specifies security requirements for operational technology (OT) in industrial automation and control systems.
To enhance cyber security and comply with these standards, South African manufacturing organizations should conduct comprehensive risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities. Datacentrix recommends implementing advanced cyber security technologies for both OT and IT environments, as well as providing regular training on security best practices for all employees, including non-IT staff. Offline cyber audits for new equipment, PLC code protection, and other advanced security measures can help organizations mitigate cyber risks in the manufacturing sector.
In conclusion, manufacturing is a critical sector for economic growth and innovation. To protect against cyber threats, organizations in this industry must take a proactive and collaborative approach to cyber security. Datacentrix, as a hybrid ICT systems integrator and managed services provider, is dedicated to supporting manufacturing businesses with the tools and expertise needed to secure their supply chains and protect their operations. For more information on Datacentrix’s IT, OT, and supply chain cyber security services, visit www.datacentrix.co.za.