The internet of things (IoT) has brought about a colossal change in the extent to which technological connectivity features in our everyday lives.

Furthermore, the industrial internet of things (IIoT) has fundamentally altered traditional manufacturing processes, bringing about exciting change, coupled with broad new security challenges. 

The benefits of a smart factory are significant to operational efficiency. Supply chain management, predictive maintenance, and accessibility to real-time monitoring are just a few examples.

Integrated manufacturing software with sophisticated IIoT systems only further enhances the visibility and control that smart factories can have over all facets of their operation.

That said, adapting to smart factory technologies is an expensive exercise, and ensuring that sufficient security measures are taken to protect that investment is crucial.

Threat scenarios

Smart factory organizations must be aware of potential attack scenarios to improve the quality and effectiveness of their security.

Common IIoT cyberattack methods include:

Exploited vulnerabilities

• Smart factory systems are typically connected to many devices and equipment via a single network. This means that any attack on one of those devices could exploit the vulnerability of the entire system. 

• Smart factories must also address the convergence between IT and physical securities and the transition from closed to connected cyber-physical security systems.

• Typically, industrial systems have not been designed to handle cybersecurity breaches, and the resulting vulnerabilities must be recognized and addressed for maximum protection. 

Malware deployment

• Historically, malware deployment is the most common approach hackers take in cyber attacks.

• In 2018, hackers were found to be using cryptocurrency-mining malware to launch a cyber attack on a European water facility. 

• Many different kinds of malware are used in cyber attacks, including ransomware, spyware, and trojans. Hackers also plan their malware deployment according to what method may be the most undetectable or create the most damage.

• As a result, smart factory securities must be prepared for techniques such as spear-phishing and watering hole attacks, social engineering, and more. 

(See how with Sophos Intercept X combines ransomware protection, deep learning malware detection, exploit prevention, EDR, and more in a single solution, from New Competitor in the 2022 ‘ASTORS’ Homeland Security Awards Program Sophos. Learn more at: www.sophos.com/Intercept-X. Courtesy of Sophos and YouTube.)

Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks

• Smart factory systems rely on various communication channels to facilitate operations.

• With MitM attacks, hackers can infiltrate these communication channels, resulting in the vulnerability of critical information, or the hacker inputting their own data to interrupt processes.

• Therefore, ensuring that a system’s internal communication channels are secure is critical to overall security.

Denial-of-service (DoS) attacks

• The goal of a DoS attack is to shut down or otherwise disable a device or network.

• A distributed DoS (DDoS) attack is a type of DoS attack that uses a botnet (a group of compromised devices) to attack the system’s processor.

• A DoS or DDoS attack ultimately seeks to shut down a network or machine and render it inaccessible to authorized users.

• This is achieved by sending the target information to trigger a crash, or simply flooding it with traffic. 

Device hacking

• It only takes one device within a network to be hacked to compromise the security of the entire system. With physical access, hackers can use the device to send incorrect information to the network, potentially affecting the whole production line.

• Even without physical access, hackers can use the device to spread malware throughout the network. 

Areas of security challenges

As well as becoming familiar with the possible cyberattack methods, smart factory managers must carefully consider where their operation’s security challenges lie.

Some of the most common ones include:

Updating legacy hardware

• A significant complication that factories face when adopting new IIoT technologies is integrating them with legacy hardware.

• When new systems are built onto existing legacy systems, unidentifiable vulnerabilities and outdated security measures may inhibit optimal protection. 

Supply chain vulnerabilities

• A product manufacturing company’s supply chain can be complex, often relying on a variety of third parties.

• Therefore, fragmented supply chain channels must be carefully managed to ensure maximum product security.

Human error

• Any organization that adopts new technologies must consider the heightened system vulnerabilities caused by new users.

• Therefore, it is essential that all factory workers be sufficiently trained and educated as to the risks associated with gathering and handling sensitive data to best prevent an attack. 

Security updates

• Traditional update processes are typically not available to individual users of IoT networks, making security updates particularly challenging.

• In addition, in OT (operational technology) environments, operations such as security updates must be performed during downtime hours, thus requiring careful planning. 

Unused function gateways

• Many industrial machines are designed to offer a far larger number of functions than is often utilized.

• Consequently, access to unused functions within machines can significantly broaden the potential for cyberattacks.

Final thoughts

Smart factories face a multitude of security challenges, especially if they are adopting new technologies to be used in combination with legacy hardware.

(Learn More. To help organizations realize the future of manufacturing, Deloitte teamed up with an ecosystem of renowned solution providers and technology innovators to create The Smart Factory @ Wichita experience. Courtesy of Deloitte US and YouTube.)

Additionally, in an age of such heightened cybersecurity risk, organizations need to not only protect themselves from current perceived threats but future-proof their systems to allow for evolving measures to be taken as new threat profiles emerge.

A full ‘chain of trust’ for software and data management must be created within a smart manufacturing system, and all potential vulnerabilities must be carefully considered and addressed. 

Related Technologies…

Sophos Nominated to Compete for Four 2022 ‘ASTORS’ Homeland Security Awards

American Security Today’s Annual ‘ASTORS’ Awards is the preeminent U.S. Homeland Security Awards Program, and now in its Seventh Year, continues to recognize industry leaders of Physical and Border Security, Cybersecurity, Emergency Preparedness – Management and Response, Law Enforcement, First Responders, as well as federal, state and municipal government agencies in the acknowledgment of their outstanding efforts to Keep our Nation Secure.

The Annual ‘ASTORS’ Awards highlight the most cutting-edge and forward-thinking security solutions coming onto the market today, to ensure our readers have the information they need to stay ahead of the competition and keep our Nation safe – one facility, street, and city at a time.

The United States was forever changed 20 years ago on September 11th, and we were fortunate to have many of those who responded to those horrific tragedies join us at the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Luncheon.

In the days that followed 9/11, the critical needs of protecting our country catapulted us into new and innovative ways to secure our homeland – which is how many of the agencies and enterprise organizations that are today ‘ASTORS’ Awards Champions, came into being.

Our 2021 keynote speaker featured a moving and informative address from TSA Administrator and Vice-Admiral of the United States Coast Guard (Ret), David Pekoske; to our attendees who traveled from across the United States and abroad, on the strategic priorities of the 64,000 member TSA workforce in securing the transportation system, enabling safe, and in many cases, contactless travel.

Legendary Police Commissioner William Bratton of the New York Police Department, the Boston Police Department, and former Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department was also live at the event, meeting with attendees and signing copies of his latest work ‘The Profession: A Memoir of Community, Race, and the Arc of Policing in America,’ courtesy of the generosity of our 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Premier Sponsors.

The 2022 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program is Proudly Sponsored by New PLATINUM SPONSOR: NEC National Security Systems (NSS), New Premier Sponsors Rajant Corporation, and guardDog AI, and returning Sponsors to date, ATI Systems, Automatic Systems, RX Global, and SIMS Software!

The continually evolving ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program will emphasize the trail of Accomplished Women in Leadership in 2022, as well as the Significance and Positive Impact of Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in our Next Generation of Government and Industry Leaders. #MentorshipMatters

So be on the lookout for exciting upcoming announcements of Speakers, Presenters, Book Signing Opportunities, and Attendees at the 2022 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Presentation Luncheon in November of 2022 in New York City!

Nominations are currently being accepted for the 2022 ‘ASTORS’ Homeland Security Awards at https://americansecuritytoday.com/ast-awards/.

Comprehensive List of Categories Include:

Access Control/ Identification	Personal/Protective Equipment	Law Enforcement Counter Terrorism
Perimeter Barrier/ Deterrent System	Interagency Interdiction Operation	Cloud Computing/Storage Solution
Facial/IRIS Recognition	Body Worn Video Product	Cyber Security
Video Surveillance/VMS	Mobile Technology	Anti-Malware
Audio Analytics	Disaster Preparedness	ID Management
Thermal/Infrared Camera	Mass Notification System	Fire & Safety
Metal/Weapon Detection	Rescue Operations	Critical Infrastructure
License Plate Recognition	Detection Products	COVID Innovations
Workforce Management	Government Security Programs	And Many Others to Choose From!

Don’t see a Direct Hit for your Product, Agency or Organization?

Submit your category recommendation for consideration to Michael Madsen, AST Publisher at: mmadsen@americansecuritytoday.com.

In 2021 over 200 distinguished guests representing Federal, State, and Local Governments, and Industry Leading Corporate Firms gathered from across North America, Europe, and the Middle East to be honored among their peers in their respective fields which included:

• The Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

• ICE Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI)

• Customs & Border Protection (CBP)

• The Federal Protective Service (FPS)

• Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)

• DHS Science & Technology (S&T)

• The National Center for Disaster Medicine & Public Health (NCDMPH)

• The American Red Cross

• The InfraGard National Alliance

• The Metropolitan Police (MPD)

• The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA)

• Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security (CHDS)

• The Federal Air Marshals Service

• The San Diego Harbor Police Foundation, and Many More!

Register for the 2022 ‘ASTORS’ Luncheon Today

American Security Today is delighted to announce, that Deputy Executive Assistant Commissioner (DEAC) Diane J. Sabatino of the Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), will be the opening keynote speaker at the much-anticipated 2022 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Presentation Luncheon, on Wednesday, November 16th, 2022.

American Security Today’s Annual ‘ASTORS’ Awards is the preeminent U.S. Homeland Security Awards Program, and now in its Seventh Year, continues to recognize industry leaders of Physical and Border Security, Cybersecurity, Emergency Preparedness – Management and Response, Law Enforcement, First Responders, as well as federal, state and municipal government agencies in the acknowledgment of their outstanding efforts to Keep our Nation Secure.

To take advantage of this exclusive luncheon opportunity to invite your team, guests, clients, and show visitors to a gourmet, affordable, plated meal event in the heart of New York City, for a fabulous networking opportunity!

Go to https://americansecuritytoday.com/product/awards-luncheon/ to secure your seat or reserve a table. ***Limited space available so Register Today. There will be no on-site registrations.

Your ‘ASTORS’ Awards Luncheon registration includes complimentary attendee access to ISC East where you can meet the world’s most innovative suppliers and cyber experts, immerse yourself in hands-on tech and learn from world-renowned speakers and thought-leaders.

Why American Security Today?

The traditional security marketplace has long been covered by a host of publications putting forward the old school basics to what is Today – a fast-changing security landscape.

American Security Today is uniquely focused on the broader Homeland Security & Public Safety marketplace with over 75,000 readers at the Federal, State, and local levels of government as well as firms allied to the government.

American Security Today brings forward a fresh compelling look and read with our customized digital publications that hold readers’ eyes throughout the story with cutting-edge editorial that provides solutions to their challenges.

Harness the Power of the Web – with our 100% Mobile Friendly Publications

AST Digital Publications are distributed to over 75,000 qualified government and homeland security professionals, in federal, state, local, and private security sectors.

‘PROTECTING OUR NATION, ONE CITY AT A TIME’

AST Reaches both Private & Public Experts, essential to meeting these new challenges.

Today’s new generation of public safety and security experts need real-time knowledge to deal with domestic and international terrorism, lone wolf attacks, unprecedented urban violence, shifts in society, culture, and media bias – making it increasingly difficult for Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, First Responders, Military and Private Security Professionals to implement coordinated security measures to ensure national security and improve public safety.

These experts are from Government at the federal, state, and local level as well as from private firms allied to the government.

AST provides a full plate of topics in our AST Monthly Magazine Editions, AST Website, and AST Daily News Alerts, covering 23 Vital Sectors such as Access Control, Perimeter Protection, Video Surveillance/Analytics, Airport Security, Border Security, CBRNE Detection, Border Security, Ports, Cybersecurity, Networking Security, Encryption, Law Enforcement, First Responders, Campus Security, Security Services, Corporate Facilities, and Emergency Response among others.

AST has Expanded readership into integral Critical Infrastructure audiences such as Protection of Nuclear Facilities, Water Plants & Dams, Bridges & Tunnels, and other potential targets of terrorism.

Other areas of concern include Transportation Hubs, Public Assemblies, Government Facilities, Sporting & Concert Stadiums, our Nation’s Schools & Universities, and Commercial Business Destinations – all enticing targets due to the large number of persons and resources clustered together.

(See just a few highlights of American Security Today’s 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Presentation Luncheon at ISC East. Courtesy of My Pristine Images and Vimeo.)

To learn more about ‘ASTORS’ Homeland Security Award Winners solutions, please see the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ CHAMPIONS Edition Fully Interactive Magazine – the Best Products of 2021 ‘A Year in Review’.

The Annual CHAMPIONS edition includes a review of Annual ‘ASTORS’ Award Winning products and programs, highlighting key details on many of the winning firm’s products and services, including video interviews and more.

It serves as your Go-To Source throughout the year for ‘The Best of 2021 Products and Services‘ endorsed by American Security Today, and can satisfy your agency’s and/or organization’s most pressing Homeland Security and Public Safety needs.

From Physical Security (Access Control, Critical Infrastructure, Perimeter Protection, and Video Surveillance Cameras and Video Management Systems), to IT Security (Cybersecurity, Encryption, Data Storage, Anti-Malware and Networking Security – Just to name a few), the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ CHAMPIONS EDITION has what you need to Detect, Delay, Respond to, and Mitigate today’s real-time threats in our constantly evolving security landscape.

It also includes featured guest editorial pieces from some of the security industry’s most respected leaders, and recognized firms in the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program.

• For a complete list of 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Award Winners, begin HERE.

For more information on All Things American Security Today, as well as the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program, please contact Michael Madsen, AST Publisher at mmadsen@americansecuritytoday.com.

AST strives to meet a 3 STAR trustworthiness rating, based on the following criteria:

• Provides named sources
• Reported by more than one notable outlet
• Includes supporting video, direct statements, or photos

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Learn More…

Sophos MTR to Compete in 2022 ‘ASTORS’ Homeland Security Awards