A recent survey by ABI Research reveals that 20% of industrial manufacturers are prioritising network security as their primary defence against cyberattacks. This trend highlights a significant shift in focus as manufacturers increasingly connect and digitize their industrial assets, generating vast amounts of data that require robust protection.
As industrial operations become more interconnected, the importance of network security technologies—such as authentication and access control—has surged. This is driven by an uptick in cybercriminal activity targeting the manufacturing sector, where data related to production processes is highly valuable. With regulatory frameworks tightening and cyber threats evolving, manufacturers face mounting pressure to enhance their cybersecurity posture.
The consequences of network breaches can be dire. Unplanned downtime not only disrupts production but can also result in substantial revenue losses and potential regulatory penalties. In Europe, for instance, non-compliance with regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the NIS2 Directive, and the Cyber Resilience Act can lead to significant financial repercussions.
Michela Menting, senior research director at ABI Research, emphasises that industrial manufacturers are prime targets for cyber threats. The sector grapples with issues like contract manufacturing counterfeiting and rampant ransomware attacks.
Moreover, vulnerabilities in the supply chain and social engineering tactics used by threat actors further heighten security concerns. As manufacturers increasingly integrate their industrial assets into operational networks, the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures becomes even more critical.
The demand for cybersecurity solutions tailored to operational technologies is set to escalate, with ABI Research projecting a global market worth $2 billion by 2024. This growth is largely fueled by the need for advanced network security and segmentation technologies. Manufacturers are prioritising investments in solutions for access control, authentication, and threat detection, aligning with the survey's findings that underscore the significance of network security in their cybersecurity strategies.
For Chief Operating Officers (COOs), understanding these trends is essential, as the implications of cyberattacks extend beyond IT to impact operational efficiency and compliance. By investing in robust network security measures, manufacturers can mitigate risks, safeguard their operations, and ensure business continuity in an increasingly digital landscape.