Cybersecurity is more critical than ever for manufacturers as they increasingly integrate advanced technologies such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), robotics and automation into their operations. While these innovations boost efficiency and productivity, they also expand potential areas for a cyberattack. But there are things you can do to protect your manufacturing company.

Identify challenges

The convergence of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) in manufacturing presents cybersecurity challenges. IT systems traditionally handle data management, while OT systems control physical processes and machinery. A breach in one can affect the other, amplifying the impact. The end result may include production downtime, financial losses and reputational damage.

For example, a hacker who gains access to internet-connected machinery could shut down operations or intentionally cause defective products. The criminal could also introduce ransomware into a manufacturer's systems, blocking access until a ransom is paid.

Something else that can make manufacturers more vulnerable to cyberattacks is the supply chain. It's complex, with an intricate network of suppliers, logistics firms, distributors, retailers and others, often connected by the internet. Members may have access to each other's systems, so a vulnerability in one link of the supply chain can expose the entire chain to cyber risks.

Cybercriminals can also steal valuable intellectual property stored on a manufacturer's computer systems and sell it on the black market. Examples include patents, designs, manufacturing processes, research and development documents, customer lists, contracts, bidding information, business plans, marketing plans, and proprietary software.

Manufacturers are still vulnerable to ordinary fraud as well. For example, a cybercriminal may send a phony email from an actual vendor, updating its payment information and asking the manufacturer to send all future payments to a bank account that the criminal controls.

Mitigate risks

The first step to protect your manufacturing company against potentially devastating cyberattacks is to conduct a risk assessment. Take inventory of your hardware, software and data, and identify any vulnerabilities. It's also critical to examine all the ways employees, vendors and other partners can access your network.

Then consider adopting a robust cybersecurity framework that includes real-time monitoring, employee training and secure network architecture to protect assets and help ensure operational continuity.

One key measure is network segmentation, which isolates critical OT systems from IT networks. This helps ensure that if a breach occurs in one area, attackers can't easily access your entire system. Firewalls and secure gateways that control data flow between IT and OT environments further reduce vulnerabilities.

Moreover, prioritize securing your supply chain. Establish stringent cybersecurity standards for suppliers and integrate them into your risk management frameworks.

Finally, employee training and awareness are crucial. Human error is a leading cause of security breaches. Reduce risk by regularly educating employees about recognizing phishing attempts, using strong passwords and following security protocols.

Form a response plan

Manufacturers should also develop incident response plans and regularly test them to help speed recovery in the event of an attack. By combining proactive measures, continuous monitoring and a culture of security awareness, you can reduce the risk of cyberattacks — and their impact if they do occur — on your manufacturing company.