As digital supply chain management becomes more prevalent, the lines between physical and digital operations are blurring, resulting in heightened risks. The convergence of IT, operational technology (OT), and industrial control systems (ICS) creates larger attack surfaces and exposes vulnerabilities. Organizations must prioritize security measures to protect their systems.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of remote work have provided more access points to critical infrastructure. Leading to significant growth in IT and OT cyberattack surfaces. Organizations now frequently process vital data through multiple workloads within seconds. Furthermore, the widespread adoption of 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) has expanded the computing footprint. With 5G networks the computing footprint has significantly increased compared to previous generations.
Software proliferation is a pressing concern for supply chains, as threats can be embedded into components provided by telecom suppliers, facilitating infiltration of 5G networks.
The meshing of physical and digital supply chains introduces vulnerabilities that cyber breaches exploit. Hackers often target unsecured ports and systems connected to the Internet within industrial setups. Continuous integration (CI) within IT/OT/ICS supply chains provides multiple entry points for attackers, and legacy OT systems lack sufficient protection against cyber threats.
Safeguarding critical systems from cybersecurity threats is a complex task. Each system operates within unique frameworks. Has distinct access points, and incorporates a mix of legacy and emerging technologies. The industry also faces a shortage of skilled professionals trained in cybersecurity.
The rise of connected devices and networked sensors presents additional attack opportunities across digital infrastructures, challenging traditional hardware and software integration trends. To combat these risks, organizations must adopt robust security measures throughout their digital supply chain management processes.