Cyber Security Threats in the Forging and Casting Industry

 In today’s digital era, forging and casting suppliers also face cyber threats. With the advanced technologies like AI, IoT and cloud based system integrated in the forging and casting operations, the potential for cyber security threats have increased.

These threats destroy the sensitive data and intellectual property and disrupt the production processes, leading to irreparable loss.

What are the various cyber security threats faced by forging and casting industries?

1. Ransomware Attacks: A common threat faced by many businesses including the forging and casting suppliers is ransomware attacks. Here the malicious software infiltrates a company network, encrypting important data and systems. The attackers demand a ransom to restore the access. This can halt the production lines of forging and casting suppliers and disrupt supply chains.
2. Industrial Espionage: Forging and Casting industry deals with proprietary technologies, trade secrets and sensitive customer information. This cyber threat involves cyber criminals or competitors infiltrating the network of the company to steal the valuable information. It could include designs, production process, and client’s details to gain a leading-edge in the market or disrupt the operations.
3. Phishing and Social Engineering: These attacks are common cyber threats that exploit human vulnerabilities. In the forging and casting industry, employees receive seemingly legitimate emails or messages that trick them into disclosing confidential information or downloading malicious software. These attacks lead to unauthorized access to company networks, allowing cyber criminals to steal the data, install malware or gain control of critical systems.
4. Supply Chain Attacks: Forging and Casting industry operates within the complex supply chains involving multiple vendors, suppliers and partners. The cyber criminals exploit vulnerabilities within these supply chains and infiltrate into the network of the company. Once inside the network, they can move laterally to access sensitive information and data causing widespread disruption.
5. IoT and Connected Device Vulnerabilities: The increasing use of IoT devices and connected systems in forging and casting industry has brought new efficiencies and also introduced additional cyber security risks. IoT devices are vulnerable to attacks as they lack robust security measures. Cyber criminals exploit these vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access to broader network, disrupt operations or manipulate the production processes of forging and casting components.

Forging and casting suppliers must recognize the growing cyber threats and take proactive measures like robust cyber security strategies to protect its operations.