As manufacturers continue embracing digital transformation, they’re also becoming prime targets for increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks. From smart machinery and cloud-connected systems to widespread use of the Internet of Things (IoT), manufacturers are operating in an era where convenience and innovation come with significant risk. Heading into 2025, it’s more critical than ever for companies in the manufacturing sector to strengthen their cybersecurity posture.
The manufacturing industry has long been vulnerable to cybercrime, but recent years have brought a dramatic increase in the frequency and complexity of attacks. One of the key reasons? Interconnected systems—particularly IoT devices, operational technology (OT), and cloud-based data platforms—offer cybercriminals multiple points of entry into business networks.
Unfortunately, many manufacturers still lag behind in cybersecurity readiness. While their IT systems might be reasonably protected, OT—which directly controls machinery and physical processes—often lacks the same level of defense. This creates a critical gap that attackers can easily exploit.
Making matters worse, attackers are getting more aggressive. In 2024 alone, the number of identified cybercriminal groups targeting manufacturing nearly doubled—from 27 to 53. This spike stems from the fact that attacks on manufacturers can yield high financial returns while severely disrupting business operations and supply chains.
A recent analysis of over 600 global cyber incidents reveals a staggering increase in attacks on manufacturing organizations:
115 attacks in 2022
Over 300 in 2023
420 in 2024
These figures reflect a broader trend: the manufacturing sector is becoming one of the top five most-targeted industries worldwide, according to data from ecrime.ch.
And while ransomware remains a visible threat, most incidents are now business email compromise (BEC) attacks—where fraudsters use phishing or social engineering to steal credentials and gain access to sensitive systems. These attacks are increasingly difficult to detect, especially with cybercriminals now using AI to improve their tactics.
Manufacturing companies face a range of cyber threats, but the three most common and concerning are:
Ransomware: Although the growth of ransomware attacks slowed in 2024 (13% vs. 70% in 2023), they remain highly disruptive. Attackers encrypt company data and demand ransom payments for its release, halting operations in the process.
Business Email Compromise (BEC): These attacks use deceptive emails to trick employees into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial data.
Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks: Cybercriminals intercept communications between parties, often stealing or modifying important data shared between manufacturers and their suppliers. For example, attackers might intercept CAD files or production schedules being transmitted to vendors.
Cybersecurity must now be viewed as a business-critical priority, not just an IT concern. To effectively guard against evolving threats, manufacturers should embrace a defense-in-depth strategy—using multiple layers of protection to secure their operations.
Here are five key actions to take:
Enhance System Security:
Invest in endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, firewalls, and multi-factor authentication. These tools help safeguard both IT and OT systems.
Implement Regular Backups and Disaster Recovery Plans:
Frequent data backups and response strategies help minimize downtime and reduce the need to pay ransoms.
Strengthen Access Control and Encryption:
Symmetric encryption protects data in transit and at rest. Secure file-sharing platforms and strict access protocols help minimize internal and external threats.
Leverage AI—But Understand It’s a Double-Edged Sword:
Cybercriminals are now using AI to generate realistic phishing messages and sophisticated malware. However, manufacturers can also fight back using AI-powered EDR tools to detect suspicious behavior and isolate threats in real time.
Train Your Workforce Continuously:
Employee awareness is one of the best defenses. But as AI makes phishing messages more convincing, traditional “check for typos” methods are no longer sufficient. Training should now include how to spot advanced social engineering tactics.
The increase in attacks—and the growing number of threat actor groups—signals that no manufacturer, regardless of size, is immune. In fact, smaller firms are becoming more frequent targets, as they are often seen as easier to breach.
Heading into 2025, companies must proactively evolve their security strategies, adopt modern tools, and promote a culture of cyber awareness across all departments. Cybersecurity is no longer just about IT infrastructure—it’s about business resilience, reputation, and continuity. Reach out to us today for more information and assitance.
This blog was inspired by insights from Stephen Ross, Head of Cybersecurity, Americas at S-RM. Read the full article on Industry Today: Manufacturers Face a Broader Landscape of Cyber Risk.