As digital supply chain management becomes more widespread, the boundaries between physical and digital operations are increasingly blurred, leading to heightened risks. The convergence of IT, operational technology (OT), and industrial control systems (ICS) has expanded attack surfaces, exposing new vulnerabilities. To mitigate these risks, organizations must prioritize digital supply chain security to protect their systems.
Expanded Attack Surfaces and Digital Supply Chain Security Vulnerabilities
The rise of remote work and the increased reliance on digital infrastructure have significantly increased both IT and OT cyberattack surfaces. Organizations now process vital data across multiple workloads in seconds, expanding potential attack vectors. Additionally, the widespread adoption of 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) has drastically increased the computing footprint, with 5G networks representing a substantial growth compared to earlier generations. Digital supply chain security is essential to safeguard these expanded infrastructures.
Proliferation of Software and Supply Chain Concerns
The rapid proliferation of software within supply chains is a growing concern, as cyber threats can be embedded into components supplied by telecom providers, facilitating attacks on 5G networks. Protecting the integrity of the digital supply chain is crucial to ensuring digital supply chain security against such threats.
Merging of Physical and Digital Supply Chains
The merging of physical and digital supply chains creates new vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. Hackers often target unsecured ports and systems connected to the Internet within industrial setups. Continuous integration (CI) within IT/OT/ICS supply chains introduces multiple entry points for attackers, while legacy OT systems often lack sufficient protection against cyber threats. This highlights the need for robust digital supply chain security measures to prevent unauthorized access.
The Complex Task of Safeguarding Critical Systems
Protecting critical systems from cybersecurity threats is an increasingly complex challenge. Each system operates within its own unique framework, with distinct access points and a mix of legacy and emerging technologies. Additionally, there is a shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals within the industry. As a result, a comprehensive approach to digital supply chain security is needed to address these vulnerabilities.
The Rise of Connected Devices and New Attack Opportunities
The rise of connected devices and networked sensors presents further opportunities for attacks across digital infrastructures, complicating the integration of hardware and software. To combat these risks, organizations must implement robust digital supply chain security measures throughout their processes.
For more information on the growing risks and the blurring line between physical and digital supply chains, check out this article on Dark Reading.