Five Lessons from Major Attacks on Manufacturing Supply Chains

Manufacturing companies rely on vast, interconnected supplier networks involving numerous third-party vendors, contractors, and partners. While this complex network is essential for operational efficiency, it also creates an enormous and sometimes unprotected attack surface for cybercriminals. Recent high-profile attacks on manufacturing supply chains have exposed the manufacturing sector’s vulnerabilities, including operational disruption, financial loss, and reputational harm.

This article examines some of the most notable attacks on manufacturing supply chains, the lessons they reveal, and practical steps manufacturers can take to improve their cybersecurity postures.

1. The 2020 SolarWinds attack: third-party software vulnerabilities

While primarily impacting government agencies and IT firms, the SolarWinds attack also rippled across the manufacturing sector. Hackers infiltrated SolarWinds’ Orion software, embedding malware in automatic software updates that thousands of companies then downloaded.

Key lesson:

Monitor third-party software rigorously

• Conduct continuous security assessments of third-party vendors and software.
• Implement strict controls over software updates and patches.
• Use threat detection tools to monitor for unusual network activity after deployments and major software updates.

2. The JBS Foods ransomware attack (2021): operational disruption

JBS Foods, the world’s largest meat processing company, fell victim to a ransomware attack that disrupted operations across North America and Australia. The attackers, believed to be a sophisticated cybercriminal group, demanded millions in ransom.

Key lesson:

Operational technology (OT) must be secure

• Regularly update and patch OT systems, which are often overlooked.
• Segregate IT and OT networks to prevent widespread compromise.
• Develop incident response plans to mitigate disruptions quickly.

3. The Toyota supplier breach (2022): single vendor impact

In 2022, Toyota had to halt production at all its Japanese plants after a key supplier, Kojima Industries, was targeted in a cyberattack. The disruption highlighted the cascading effects of a single vendor breach.

Key lesson:

Strengthen supplier risk management

• Map out your supply chain to identify critical dependencies and bottlenecks.
• Enforce cybersecurity standards for all vendors, including small suppliers.
• Incorporate redundancy into supplier sourcing to minimize single points of failure.

4. Norsk Hydro cyberattack (2019): transparency and recovery

Norwegian aluminum giant Norsk Hydro suffered a devastating ransomware attack that forced several plants to operate manually. Remarkably, Norsk Hydro opted for transparency, refusing to pay the ransom and keeping stakeholders informed throughout recovery.

Key lesson:

Transparency and preparedness pay off

• Invest in robust backup systems to avoid paying ransoms.
• Establish clear communication plans for stakeholders during a crisis.
• Conduct regular cybersecurity drills to prepare employees for real-world scenarios.

5. Lessons in preventative measures: how to fortify your supply chain

While these incidents vary in nature and scope, they share common vulnerabilities and highlight the need for comprehensive security strategies. Here are some actionable steps for manufacturers:

a. Use data-centric security solutions

Encrypt sensitive data and control access to it, even when it’s shared with third-party vendors and suppliers throughout your supply chain.

b. Implement zero trust architecture

Trust no users or devices implicitly — inside or outside of your network. Use strict access controls and continuous authentication.

c. Regularly assess third-party cybersecurity

Evaluate the cybersecurity posture of everyone in your supply chain and require their compliance with established security frameworks (e.g. NIST, ISO 27001).

d. Prepare for the worst with incident response planning

Create and test response plans tailored to supply chain disruptions and ransomware attack scenarios.

e. Leverage technology like EDRM and SIEM

Use enterprise digital rights management (EDRM) solutions and security information and event management (SIEM) tools to monitor and protect data throughout its lifecycle.

Why Seclore can help protect your manufacturing supply chain

Manufacturers must prioritize protecting sensitive data beyond their organizational boundaries. Seclore’s data-centric security solutions empower manufacturers to control, track, and revoke access to critical information — even after it’s shared with third parties. 

By integrating seamlessly with existing systems like DLPs and CASBs, Seclore ensures end-to-end data protection across the entire supply chain.

Conclusion

Major attacks on manufacturing supply chains are stark reminders that cybersecurity should go beyond compliance. The complexity of modern supply chains demands proactive measures, continuous monitoring, and the right technology solutions to safeguard against evolving threats. 

By learning from these high-profile incidents, manufacturers can enhance their resilience and maintain operational continuity in the face of cyber adversaries.