August 28, 2025
Cyber Threats in Manufacturing
Manufacturing is undergoing a digital transformation but with every smart machine, cloud-based system, and remote connection, cybersecurity risks grow. While automation and the IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) improve efficiency, they also create new attack surfaces for cybercriminals. Small and mid-sized manufacturers, especially in the Midwest, are increasingly being targeted not despite their size, but because of it.
In 2025, the cost of inaction is too high. Cyberattacks can halt production lines, corrupt data, and destroy supply chain trust. That's why knowing your biggest threats is the first step toward prevention.
1. Ransomware: The #1 Threat to Production Continuity
Ransomware remains the single most damaging cybersecurity threat to U.S. manufacturers. Attackers encrypt systems and demand payment in cryptocurrency to unlock access. Even if the ransom is paid, recovery is rarely immediate and the financial and reputational fallout can be devastating.
Manufacturing firms are particularly vulnerable due to:
- Outdated systems or unpatched software
- Unsegmented networks - isolating the unsupported systems
- Lack of employee awareness training
- Weak backup and disaster recovery protocols
When a CNC machine goes offline due to a ransomware attack/encrypted files, it's not just downtime, it's lost contracts, missed deadlines, and sometimes regulatory non-compliance.
What You Can Do
Invest in layered cybersecurity, including endpoint protection, email filtering, and regular system patching. But most importantly, test your backups. A solid disaster recovery plan is your best insurance policy.
2. Phishing and Business Email Compromise (BEC)
Manufacturers rely heavily on email communication with suppliers, logistics companies, and clients. That makes them prime targets for phishing campaigns and Business Email Compromise (BEC) attacks, where cybercriminals impersonate trusted contacts to trick employees into sending money or confidential data.
Attackers often spoof vendor domains or hijack existing threads—making it hard for even trained employees to detect fraud.
Signs of an Email Compromise:
- Sudden wire transfer requests
- Changes in invoice payment instructions
- Urgent messages with unfamiliar sender details
Every email is a potential threat vector. Employee training and multi-factor authentication (MFA) can dramatically reduce the chances of a successful attack.
3. Insecure IIoT Devices and Smart Equipment
Smart sensors, connected robotics, and cloud-based maintenance tools streamline operations—but they also expand the digital footprint of your factory floor. If not properly secured, IIoT devices become entry points for attackers.
Common IIoT vulnerabilities include:
- Default passwords left unchanged
- Unencrypted data transmissions
- Lack of firmware updates from vendors
- Lack of ability to upgrade the operating system
Once inside, bad actors can move laterally through your network, potentially accessing financial records, client data, or production controls.
Key takeaway: If it's connected to your network, it must be protected.
4. Supply Chain Attacks
Modern manufacturing depends on a tightly integrated supply chain. Unfortunately, your cybersecurity is only as strong as your weakest vendor. Hackers increasingly target third-party software and hardware providers to gain indirect access to your systems.
A compromised vendor can deliver malware through software updates, shared cloud platforms, or remote access tools.
Steps to mitigate supply chain risk:
- Vet third-party vendors for cybersecurity compliance
- Require evidence of frameworks (e.g., NIST, CMMC) from suppliers
- Limit vendor access to only what's necessary
The 2014 Home Depot breach is an example of how vendor access can unravel even the strongest-looking IT operation. Attackers gained entry through a vendor's stolen credentials and deployed malware compromising 56 million payment cards.
The lesson: giving vendors broad access without proper controls creates a dangerous opening for attackers. Always enforce least-privilege principles and monitor vendor activity closely.
5. Lack of Cyber Hygiene and IT Governance
Many small manufacturers lack formal cybersecurity policies. Without a clear roadmap, essential protections like MFA, endpoint detection, or user access control may be missing altogether. Meanwhile, many still rely on outdated legacy systems that can't keep up with modern threats.
Poor cyber hygiene leads to:
- Data silos and unsecured shared drives
- Weak passwords and no expiration policies
- Inconsistent software updates
The Fix?
Implement a governance framework—even a simple checklist makes a difference. Schedule regular IT risk assessments and engage with a local cybersecurity partner who understands your operations and can recommend realistic, budget-conscious improvements.
Bullet Recap: 5 Biggest Threats to Watch
- Ransomware: Encrypts systems, demands ransom; halts production.
- Phishing/BEC: Tricks employees via fraudulent emails.
- IIoT Insecurity: Exposes vulnerabilities through connected devices.
- Supply Chain Risks: Threats from compromised vendors or tools.
- Weak Cyber Hygiene: Leaves systems exposed through neglect or outdated practices.
How Tomorrow's Technology Today Helps Ohio Manufacturers Stay Secure
At Tomorrow's Technology Today, you know how critical uptime and compliance are to your business. That's why you get cost-effective cybersecurity tailored for manufacturing environments without enterprise-level pricing. Because you benefit from the volume of endpoints we manage across the region, you receive better pricing and gain protection informed by a broader view of emerging threats.
From real-time monitoring and CJIS-compliant support to MFA implementation and custom managed IT services, we help manufacturers in Ohio and Indiana stay protected, productive, and ready for what's next.
You don't need to be an expert in cybersecurity. That's what we're here for.
Ready to Protect Your Business
Click Here or give us a call at 419-678-2083 to Book a FREE 10-Minute Discovery Call
