While manufacturing businesses have traditionally placed less emphasis than some industries on cybersecurity, this mindset is changing as the number and sophistication of cyber threats targeting the sector has grown.

Manufacturing companies have long operated under the assumption that their focus on physical production makes them less of a target. Many manufacturing companies have been slow to invest in the necessary cybersecurity infrastructure. With a growing number of threats, companies need to make cybersecurity a priority.

Man in a manufacturing facility

The Rising Threat of Cyberattacks in Manufacturing

Cyberattacks on manufacturing businesses have surged with a significant increase in ransomware and malware incidents over the past few years. The manufacturing sector has ranked as one of the most targeted industries for cyberattacks for the past three years, accounting for 25.7% of attacks. This trend underscores a critical vulnerability: many manufacturing companies lack the robust cybersecurity measures needed to protect their operations, data, and reputation.

One of the most concerning aspects of these attacks is their potential to disrupt production processes. Unlike other industries where data breaches primarily affect information security, in manufacturing, a cyberattack can halt production lines, cause equipment malfunctions, and lead to costly downtime. 

For a business that operates on tight margins and relies on timely production, even a few hours of downtime can result in significant financial losses, strained customer relationships, and damage to the company’s reputation.

Why Cybersecurity is Vital for Manufacturing Businesses

Given the increasing frequency and severity of cyberattacks, investing in cybersecurity solutions is no longer optional for manufacturing businesses—it’s a necessity. Here’s why:

  • Protection of Intellectual Property: Manufacturing companies often possess valuable intellectual property (IP), including proprietary designs, manufacturing processes, and trade secrets. A cyberattack that compromises this data can lead to unauthorized industrial surveillance, loss of competitive advantage, and significant financial harm.
  • Ensuring Operational Continuity: Cyberattacks can disrupt production and cause costly delays. Investing in cybersecurity ensures that your operations remain resilient and can quickly recover from any disruptions.
  • Compliance with Regulations: As governments and industry bodies impose stricter regulations on data security, manufacturing businesses must comply to avoid fines and legal penalties. Investing in cybersecurity helps ensure that your company meets these regulatory requirements.
  • Maintaining Customer Trust: Your customers rely on you to deliver products on time and without interruption. A cyberattack that affects your ability to meet these commitments can erode trust and lead to lost business. Strong cybersecurity measures help maintain customer confidence and protect your reputation.

Woman on computer with cybersecurity symbols in the background

Explore Complete Network’s Cybersecurity Services

Here at Complete Network, we understand the unique challenges manufacturing businesses face in today’s digital landscape. We offer a comprehensive suite of managed cybersecurity services, including:

  • Managed detection & response
  • Incident response
  • Cyber-assessment
  • Security training
  • Penetration testing
  • 24/7/365 technical and customer support
  • vCIO (Virtual Chief Information Officer)

As companies expand, the need to strengthen IT infrastructure and bolster cybersecurity becomes critical. In response to these challenges, many businesses are turning to Complete Network for expert guidance and support to ensure their operations remain secure and efficient.

Complete Network’s vCIO (Virtual Chief Information Officer) services offer comprehensive IT solutions, helping businesses revamp their systems and improve cybersecurity. Here are a few ways we can help manufacturing businesses succeed: 

  • Enhanced Cybersecurity: Complete Network can implement next-gen endpoint protection and multi-factor authentication (MFA) for both SaaS applications and on-premise infrastructure, significantly reducing the risk of cyber threats.
  • Cost-Effective IT Solutions: By replacing over-complex and failing server infrastructures with hybrid cloud alternatives, Complete Network can reduce an organization’s capital expenditure and increases operational flexibility.
  • Strategic IT Planning: The Complete Network team can design IT infrastructure that is secure, scalable, and aligned with long-term business objectives.

Through a partnership with Complete Network, manufacturing businesses can increase cybersecurity defenses and streamline IT processes, enabling them to focus on core operations without the worry of cyber threats.

Man typing on a computer

Protect Your Manufacturing Business Today

Cybersecurity is critical to the success and sustainability of your manufacturing business. Don’t wait for a cyberattack to disrupt your operations—take proactive steps now to protect your data, your reputation, and your bottom line.

Schedule a meeting with Complete Network today to learn how we can help you build a robust cybersecurity strategy customized to your needs. 

Downloadable IT Resources

How To Supplement Your Internal IT Team.

In an ideal world, technology would be a consistent source of competitive advantage and benefit for small and midsized businesses. The reality is that many fail to realize that confidence.

Without the right resources and support, even a highly skilled technology team can become overwhelmed by the growing list of technology management duties. When important tasks get neglected, it creates ripple effects throughout an organization that damage productivity and efficiency.

The co-managed IT services model solves these problems by providing your existing IT team with all the support and resources they need to successfully plan, manage, and defend your network technology.

This guide covers:

  • • Aligning technology with business goals
  • • Reducing churn while preserving institutional knowledge
  • • Empowering your staff to maximize productivity
  • • Achieving the highest level of cybersecurity defense

Download it for free by filling out the form here.