Cyber threats for manufacturing companies that target multiple groups at once are some of the most widespread and effective attacks that exist today. Supply chain attacks interrupt one link within an organization’s supply process to cause a massive disruption that can affect thousands of people. Manufacturing companies are particularly vulnerable to supply chain attacks due to long supply lines and fragmented security systems. With a variety of vulnerable endpoints, hackers can gain access to major companies through partners and suppliers. Supply chain attacks are a double-edged sword since once the main company is forced to shut down operations, each company they supply is similarly affected within days of the initial attack.
Some of the most high-profile attacks in recent months have been supply chain attacks that affect multi-million dollar corporations, critical infrastructure, and even global food production. For many, the Solar Winds attack that infected a trusted software update used by many well-known companies was a much-needed glimpse into the potential dangers of a supply chain attack. In May 2021, a supply chain attack on Colonial Pipeline shut down 45% of the fuel supply in the Eastern U.S., clearly echoing fears of the potential damage of a supply chain attack that affects the nation’s critical infrastructure. The gas line attack was followed almost immediately by a cyberattack on JBS Foods, one of the world’s biggest suppliers of meat. Both of these attacks were resolved quickly with the payment of millions to hackers. However, the potential dangers of more severe attacks are clear. Successful attacks with malicious intent beyond extortion could cause long-term shutdowns to critical systems and food chains to multiple nations.
