Tips and insights for managing manufacturing cybersecurity

Q: How should manufacturing leaders think about cybersecurity investment versus operational risk?

Cybersecurity in manufacturing certainly means preventing breaches. But it also protects continuity. A useful way to think about investment is to ask: if this system were unavailable for 24 hours, what would it cost us in lost production, missed shipments, or contractual penalties?

Q: How does cybersecurity affect regulatory compliance in manufacturing?

Many manufacturers operate under industry, export, privacy, and safety regulations that require strong data controls. A breach doesn’t just disrupt operations; it can trigger reporting obligations, audits, fines, or contract violations.

Q: How often should manufacturing cybersecurity strategy be reviewed?

Threat landscapes evolve faster than most capital equipment cycles. A cybersecurity strategy should be reviewed regularly. This is especially true after any system upgrades, acquisitions, supplier changes, or major process shifts.

Q: How can manufacturers balance cybersecurity with operational speed?

Strong role-based access, automated monitoring, and well-defined escalation paths allow teams to move quickly inside safe boundaries, and to protect decision-making without slowing it down unnecessarily. Company-wide, agreed-upon protocols reduce firefighting.

Q: What is the long-term business impact of strong manufacturing cybersecurity?

Over time, strong cybersecurity builds operational confidence. Leaders can adopt connected systems, cloud platforms, automation, and AI-enabled tools without constant fear of exposure. That confidence becomes a competitive advantage – allowing you to innovate and scale more securely.

Manufacturing cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue. It’s a leadership responsibility that protects profitability, reputation, and the long-term resilience of your operation.

Every modern business must tackle an increasingly complex range of security risks. But these days, keeping up with manufacturing cybersecurity threats is a particularly daunting challenge. Why is this sector hit harder than many others? Because the very cloud-connected technologies that link all your systems, machines, and teams can also create pathways for exposure.

The good news is that modern manufacturing software platforms are designed and built with layered security, monitoring, and continuous updates in mind. And today’s teams and business leaders are more aware than ever of the human vulnerabilities that lead to cyber threats – ensuring that sound protocols are always put in place.

Common manufacturing industry cybersecurity risks

In large operations, cyber incidents can affect not just systems, but production schedules, supplier commitments, compliance records – and even your reputation and the trust of your customers. The most common issues tend to target availability, data integrity, and operational continuity.

Ransomware targeting production environments

Ransomware is a kind of malware that locks systems or data until a payment is made. In manufacturing, even brief outages can stop production, giving attackers leverage. When shared drives or execution systems are not properly encrypted, disruption can quickly spread across lines or sites.

Theft of intellectual property and engineering data

Manufacturers often hold highly valuable designs, formulae, process documentation, or product specs. If a breach goes after engineering systems or shared design environments, it can expose trade secrets, weaken competitive advantage, or compromise export-controlled information.

Supply chain and third-party vulnerabilities

Large manufacturers rely on an external network of suppliers, logistics providers, and contract partners. An attack on one of your third parties can create indirect exposure through shared credentials, APIs, or file exchanges. The risk often sneaks in through trusted channels rather than direct attacks.

Compromised operational technology (OT) systems

Industrial control systems and shop floor technologies are increasingly networked. If compromised, attackers can manipulate how they are programmed, disrupt sequencing, or interfere with quality records. This kind of interference can create safety concerns or force precautionary shutdowns.

Data integrity and silent manipulation

Not all attacks show themselves. Sometimes, rather than being locked, data is quietly manipulated. Modified production data, quality records, or inventory figures can lead to ill-informed decisions, bad automations, and a variety of downstream errors – long before the root cause is sniffed out.

Manufacturing network security and AI-powered IoT

Modern Industrial IoT (IIoT) networks integrate a fast-growing number devices and machines – connecting them to powerful AI-enhanced operational systems. And while this certainly boosts efficiency and visibility, it also increases exposure to cyber threats. Fortunately, modern cloud-based software solutions are built to manage and tackle these issues in real time – but it’s still crucial to be aware of the risks.

Expanded attack surface

Each connected device, API integration, or external partner link introduces a potential entry point into your network. Even well-secured platforms can be exposed if peripheral systems or unmanaged endpoints are not monitored and managed. Strong authentication and centralised monitoring help keep those entry points controlled.

Legacy equipment and hybrid environments

Many plants operate a mix of modern cloud systems and older on-premises or embedded technologies. This legacy equipment may lack modern authentication or encryption. Identifying and segmenting these assets allows appropriate controls or updates to reduce exposure.

Real-time operational impact

Data or admin breaches carry risk, but in IoT networks, cyberattacks can also trigger equipment shutdowns and production disruptions. This can quickly cascade into supply chain and distribution delays. Network segmentation and anomaly detection help contain issues before they spread.

Unmanaged endpoints and shadow systems

Personal devices and unauthorised software can slip through IT defences and act as unintended back doors if connected without proper controls. Endpoint management policies and access restrictions help limit this exposure once the risk is recognised.

AI models and data integrity

AI-powered systems analyse IIoT data to guide maintenance, quality, and production decisions. If input data is corrupted or altered, AI-driven insights can amplify errors. Validating data sources and monitoring model performance helps protect operational accuracy.

IT protocols for managing cybersecurity in manufacturing

While cybersecurity measures may start with the IT team, they should never be laid solely at the feet of that department. Plant leaders, operations executives, and system owners all influence risk through their daily decisions – and it's important that they're all made aware of some of the standard IT protocols.

Enforce multi-factor authentication
Enforce multi-factor authentication for ERP, MES, engineering, and remote access systems. Password-only access is simply no longer sufficient for today's connected environments.
Control privileged access
Don't be worn down by convenience. Limit admin rights to those who genuinely need them. Review high-level privileges regularly to prevent a quiet over-expansion of system authority.
Segment operational networks
Separate corporate IT systems from operational technology and other vulnerable networks. Segmentation acts like flood gates, protecting other areas if one gets compromised.
Patch and update systematically
Maintain a disciplined update cadence for servers, endpoints, and connected devices. Delaying patches (or ignoring prompts to do so) opens up entry points for would-be attackers.
Monitor remote access pathways
Track and log all remote vendor and contractor access. Disable any one-time access protocols you may be allowing and revoke temporary credentials immediately after work is completed.
Retire unused accounts
Audit dormant logins and remove accounts tied to former employees, suppliers, or legacy projects. You'd be surprised how often this step is missed and leads to major issues.
Encrypt sensitive data
Encryption may seem time-consuming at first, but it gets faster as it becomes a habit. Always encrypt all your sensitive data – especially IP, customer records, or compliance documentation.
Log and review system activity
Maintain detailed logs for critical systems and establish a rigidly scheduled calendar for reviewing them – looking for unusual patterns or data movement that may signal compromise.
Back up critical systems
Perform regular, tested backups of production-critical systems and data – and never procrastinate on this. The ability to recover quickly is as important as preventing the attack.
Protect engineering environments
Don't let your financial platforms be the only ones with bulletproof protection. Apply the same security discipline to design, PLM, and configuration systems. IP theft often begins here.
Secure IIoT and edge devices
Sensors and edge devices are sometimes lower tech than others. This makes them targets and means you should implement and monitor specialised protocols, built just for this purpose.
Limit API and integration exposure
Beyond your core systems, not every single application needs to be integrated. Establish a strict IT-centralised process for all staff who wish to integrate anything new.
Conduct vulnerability assessments
An outside pair of eyes never hurts. Schedule periodic third-party security assessments by reliable professionals – to identify gaps that internal teams may overlook.
Define incident response roles
Before an incident occurs, establish clear task owners, escalation paths, and decision authority. This boosts speed and clarity of response, which greatly reduces operational impact.
Align cybersecurity with operational risk
Evaluate security controls based on their realistic impact on production continuity, safety, and regulatory exposure – not just based upon pre-agreed KPIs

Manufacturing network security: Staff guidelines checklist

Technology controls are at the heart of cybersecurity, but human behaviour remains one of the largest risk factors in manufacturing environments. Clear, consistent expectations help reduce preventable exposure without creating a culture of suspicion.

Verify unexpected requests
Pause before responding to urgent emails requesting credentials, payments, or file transfers. If you can't confirm who it is through a known channel, alert your manager before replying.
Never share credentials
Individual logins are there to protect both you and the company. No matter how much time it may save, never divulge your credentials or login to anyone else (not even a manager).
Avoid unauthorised applications
Most systems will prevent you from initialising unauthorised software downloads. But even if you're able to, don't do it without approval. This is a classic back door to operational access.
Use approved devices only
Unless through an official portal, never use personal devices to access work files, data, or systems. Inform your manager of any personal device you wish to have authorised for this use.
Lock screens and workstations
To protect yourself as much as the company, when you step away from your workstation, be sure to close your laptop or log out of any visible desktop that has secured access.
Protect sensitive conversations
Phishing scams can be very insidious and manipulative. Be sure to never discuss company details or procedures in any public forum – either digitally or in real life.
Be cautious with USB devices
While these devices are on the way out, many manufacturing devices or machines still have USB ports. Encourage your company to move away from using USB devices to move information.
Report suspicious activity early
If you see unusual system behaviour, unexpected pop-ups, or strange login alerts, don't presume it's okay. Take a screenshot and report anything weird as quickly as possible.
Follow access boundaries
Just as you shouldn't share your own credentials, don't use systems or dashboards under someone else's login. Again, for your own protection as much as anything.
Respect update schedules
System updates are there for a reason. You don't have to stop what you're doing to allow an update. But neither should you keep postponing them any longer than you have to.
Safeguard remote work practises
When working remotely, avoid logging in at coffee shops or on public networks. It's remarkably common for hackers to gain access within a compromised public or unsecured network.
Handle external file transfers carefully
Because this is such a well-known malware delivery method, most companies have standardised file sharing tools. But always validate any unfamiliar file sharing links before opening.
Maintain physical security
Old-fashioned tailgating (following authorised user in before the door closes) remains a common initial access method. A legit visitor will understand if you don't allow them this kind of access.
Implement a clean desk policy
When you leave your desk or workspace, ensure that all printed materials are put away and that anything sensitive is kept locked. Shred sensitive documents once you are finished with them.
Managers – lead by example
Just because you have the authority to override security protocols doesn't mean you should. Use your position to set an example about the importance of security to everyone's well-being.

How do modern software solutions handle cybersecurity for manufacturing?

Today’s cloud solutions are built and methodically developed to tackle the full range of modern cybersecurity challenges – and to scale and adapt as those risks evolve. Patching, monitoring, access control, and incident response are no longer scattered across dozens of plants, servers, and one-off applications. A modern, multi-tenant cloud approach is centered around layered protection, secure development practices, and formal controls that are audited and continuously maintained.

Layered protection

Modern platforms apply multiple overlapping controls to safeguard confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Rather than trust a single safeguard, they combine network controls, identity validation, encryption, monitoring, and access governance to reduce single vulnerable points.

Secure development lifecycle

Security is now built into how software is designed, tested, and updated. Structured patching processes, code reviews, and change controls make sure that vulnerabilities are addressed quickly and consistently – and help prevent unauthorized modifications.

Encryption standards

Sensitive data is encrypted both in transit across networks and when it’s at rest within a cloud environment. With protocols such as TLS for data transmission and strong encryption methods for stored data – you can help prevent a breach, and greatly minimise damage if one should occur.

Identity and access governance

The best solutions will support centralised authentication models, including federation with enterprise identity providers. This means you can reduce your reliance on local accounts and strengthen your oversight as to who can access what, and under which conditions.

Continuous security testing

Cloud platforms are built to undergo regular vulnerability scanning, automated security assessments, and periodic third-party penetration testing. These measures help recommend improvements and identify weaknesses – before they have a chance to impact your business.

Logging and monitoring

Detailed system logging, anomaly detection, and activity monitoring provide continual and real-time visibility into system behaviour. Tamper-resistant logs and structured alerting also support investigation readiness and faster response if any unusual activity occurs.

Structured incident response

Established incident response processes let you define escalation paths, investigation procedures, and customer notification timelines. Clear communication protocols and remediation frameworks help contain impact and quickly restore normal operations.

See how Infor’s manufacturing solutions are built on AWS cloud infrastructure – offering world-class cybersecurity and threat protection.

Infor + AWS partnership

Cybersecurity in manufacturing FAQs

How should manufacturing leaders think about cybersecurity investment versus operational risk?

How does cybersecurity affect regulatory compliance in manufacturing?

How often should manufacturing cybersecurity strategy be reviewed?

How can manufacturers balance cybersecurity with operational speed?

What is the long-term business impact of strong manufacturing cybersecurity?

Manufacturing network security and AI-powered IoT

IT protocols for managing cybersecurity in manufacturing

Enforce multi-factor authentication
Enforce multi-factor authentication for ERP, MES, engineering, and remote access systems. Password-only access is simply no longer sufficient for today's connected environments.

Control privileged access
Don't be worn down by convenience. Limit admin rights to those who genuinely need them. Review high-level privileges regularly to prevent a quiet over-expansion of system authority.

Segment operational networks
Separate corporate IT systems from operational technology and other vulnerable networks. Segmentation acts like flood gates, protecting other areas if one gets compromised.

Patch and update systematically
Maintain a disciplined update cadence for servers, endpoints, and connected devices. Delaying patches (or ignoring prompts to do so) opens up entry points for would-be attackers.

Monitor remote access pathways
Track and log all remote vendor and contractor access. Disable any one-time access protocols you may be allowing and revoke temporary credentials immediately after work is completed.

Retire unused accounts
Audit dormant logins and remove accounts tied to former employees, suppliers, or legacy projects. You'd be surprised how often this step is missed and leads to major issues.

Encrypt sensitive data
Encryption may seem time-consuming at first, but it gets faster as it becomes a habit. Always encrypt all your sensitive data – especially IP, customer records, or compliance documentation.

Log and review system activity
Maintain detailed logs for critical systems and establish a rigidly scheduled calendar for reviewing them – looking for unusual patterns or data movement that may signal compromise.

Back up critical systems
Perform regular, tested backups of production-critical systems and data – and never procrastinate on this. The ability to recover quickly is as important as preventing the attack.

Protect engineering environments
Don't let your financial platforms be the only ones with bulletproof protection. Apply the same security discipline to design, PLM, and configuration systems. IP theft often begins here.

Secure IIoT and edge devices
Sensors and edge devices are sometimes lower tech than others. This makes them targets and means you should implement and monitor specialised protocols, built just for this purpose.

Limit API and integration exposure
Beyond your core systems, not every single application needs to be integrated. Establish a strict IT-centralised process for all staff who wish to integrate anything new.

Conduct vulnerability assessments
An outside pair of eyes never hurts. Schedule periodic third-party security assessments by reliable professionals – to identify gaps that internal teams may overlook.

Define incident response roles
Before an incident occurs, establish clear task owners, escalation paths, and decision authority. This boosts speed and clarity of response, which greatly reduces operational impact.

Align cybersecurity with operational risk
Evaluate security controls based on their realistic impact on production continuity, safety, and regulatory exposure – not just based upon pre-agreed KPIs

Manufacturing network security: Staff guidelines checklist

Verify unexpected requests
Pause before responding to urgent emails requesting credentials, payments, or file transfers. If you can't confirm who it is through a known channel, alert your manager before replying.

Never share credentials
Individual logins are there to protect both you and the company. No matter how much time it may save, never divulge your credentials or login to anyone else (not even a manager).

Avoid unauthorised applications
Most systems will prevent you from initialising unauthorised software downloads. But even if you're able to, don't do it without approval. This is a classic back door to operational access.

Use approved devices only
Unless through an official portal, never use personal devices to access work files, data, or systems. Inform your manager of any personal device you wish to have authorised for this use.

Lock screens and workstations
To protect yourself as much as the company, when you step away from your workstation, be sure to close your laptop or log out of any visible desktop that has secured access.

Protect sensitive conversations
Phishing scams can be very insidious and manipulative. Be sure to never discuss company details or procedures in any public forum – either digitally or in real life.

Be cautious with USB devices
While these devices are on the way out, many manufacturing devices or machines still have USB ports. Encourage your company to move away from using USB devices to move information.

Report suspicious activity early
If you see unusual system behaviour, unexpected pop-ups, or strange login alerts, don't presume it's okay. Take a screenshot and report anything weird as quickly as possible.

Follow access boundaries
Just as you shouldn't share your own credentials, don't use systems or dashboards under someone else's login. Again, for your own protection as much as anything.

Respect update schedules
System updates are there for a reason. You don't have to stop what you're doing to allow an update. But neither should you keep postponing them any longer than you have to.

Safeguard remote work practises
When working remotely, avoid logging in at coffee shops or on public networks. It's remarkably common for hackers to gain access within a compromised public or unsecured network.

Handle external file transfers carefully
Because this is such a well-known malware delivery method, most companies have standardised file sharing tools. But always validate any unfamiliar file sharing links before opening.

Maintain physical security
Old-fashioned tailgating (following authorised user in before the door closes) remains a common initial access method. A legit visitor will understand if you don't allow them this kind of access.

Implement a clean desk policy
When you leave your desk or workspace, ensure that all printed materials are put away and that anything sensitive is kept locked. Shred sensitive documents once you are finished with them.

Managers – lead by example
Just because you have the authority to override security protocols doesn't mean you should. Use your position to set an example about the importance of security to everyone's well-being.