As intelligent manufacturing technologies such as IIoT, AI, cloud computing, and 5G transform the industrial sector, cybersecurity risks have also become increasingly complex. Manufacturers must strengthen their defenses to ensure system stability and resilience against sophisticated threats. Connecting machinery and control systems to networks through IIoT enables data-driven process optimization and cost reduction but also opens new attack surfaces. Implementing Automated Threat Detection and Response (ATDR) technologies that leverage AI, machine learning, and real-time analytics allows rapid identification and mitigation of threats with minimal human intervention. This approach not only closes security gaps but also enhances business agility, ensures compliance, and supports continuous operations in the fast-evolving digital landscape.

Cybersecurity Threats in Manufacturing

• Phishing and social engineering

Phishing and social engineering exploit trust and urgency, tricking employees into sharing sensitive data or authorizing fraudulent transactions.

• Ransomware attacks

Ransomware cripples manufacturing by encrypting critical systems and demanding payment, often spreading through phishing, malware, or unpatched legacy systems.

• Supply chain attacks

Supply chain attacks exploit vendor vulnerabilities to infiltrate manufacturers, often through compromised software updates or malicious code.

• Insider threats

          Insider threats arise when employees or contractors misuse access, whether through malicious intent or careless mistakes, making monitoring tools and thorough vetting critical defenses.

• Intellectual property theft

Nation-state actors and cybercriminals often target manufacturers to steal valuable intellectual property, from chip designs to proprietary processes.

• Equipment sabotage

Cyber-attacks that compromise industrial control or operational technology systems can disrupt production and potentially lead to physical harm.

Smart Technologies to Address Cybersecurity

The rise of cyber-attacks has prompted many organizations to maximize technology benefits while maintaining strong oversight through practical implementation strategies such as:

• Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)

The working principle of the IIoT system is to utilize manufacturing data in order to improve the production process, enhancing efficiency and increasing output. It can also reduce costs. The components of the system include examples such as sensors that collect physical data, like pressure, temperature, or vibration; controllers that process the massive amount of data and send commands; and machines that act as actuators controlling mechanisms or various parts of the system to operate as required.

• Automated Threat Detection and Response (ATDR)

This involves using Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and real-time data analytics to quickly identify, assess, and respond to threats at the machine level. For forward-looking organizations, this approach builds resilience, regulatory compliance, and long-term business continuity.

• Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA)

ZTA is a security approach that continuously verifies all users, devices, and applications rather than trusting anything based on network location alone.

• AI-Powered Threat Detection

Combine machine learning with manual investigation to process security logs and identify suspicious activities, so analysts can reduce response times and damage costs.

• Streamlined Update Management

Automated systems can apply updates across platforms and devices to address security gaps and reduce manual workload.

• Built-in Security Approach

Incorporate protective measures from project inception through code analysis and risk assessment to reduce vulnerabilities while improving compliance efficiency and long-term cost management.

• Network Isolation & Dynamic Protection

Segment infrastructure along with implementing dynamic encryption to limit breach impact and prevent unauthorized access from intruders.

• Enhanced Identity Verification

Control access beyond passwords through biometric authentication, continuous monitoring and automated user management to prevent data leaks.

• Intelligent Security Operations

Use automation tools for routine tasks like threat blocking and alert correlation to enable security professionals to focus on complex attacks while maintaining consistent policy enforcement.

            Stay tuned for more insights on cutting-edge automation and smart technology on our future blogs, and don't miss the chance to experience real-time technology demonstrations and meet potential providers of solutions against cybersecurity at Assembly & Automation Technology 2026, June 17-20, 2026 at BITEC Bangkok.



Reference:

https://hoxhunt.com/blog/cyber-security-threats-in-manufacturing-industry

https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia/what-is-a-zero-trust-architecture

https://www.sentinelone.com/cybersecurity-101/cybersecurity/cyber-security-trends/