The chemical manufacturing industry is facing an escalating threat from cyberattacks, accounting for nearly a quarter of global cyber threats in 2022. These attacks, which include business email compromise and credential theft, pose significant risks to both the digital and physical realms. Mark Clark, VP Sales EMEA North at Onapsis, has highlighted the importance of protecting the industry against such cyber threats.
Chemical manufacturers have become attractive targets for cybercriminals due to the potential consequences of an attack. When faced with a ransomware attack, manufacturers may be more inclined to meet the attackers’ demands to avoid a worst-case scenario. The digitization of manufacturing processes has created numerous entry points for hackers, making the industry a primary target for cyberattacks. As geopolitical tensions rise, state-sponsored cybercriminals may also target chemical manufacturers to inflict damage on enemy states.
To defend against these threats, chemical manufacturers must prioritize cybersecurity measures. It is crucial to partner with cybersecurity companies that continuously identify new threat vectors and develop innovative defensive techniques. Manufacturers should ensure their security providers offer comprehensive protection for cloud, hybrid, and on-premise applications, as well as proactive vulnerability management, threat detection and response, compliance automation, and application security testing. Additionally, having a robust response plan in place can minimize business interruptions and mitigate the impact of a successful attack on the organization’s reputation.
Taking proactive steps to strengthen cyber defenses is essential as cybercrime rates are expected to continue rising. Chemical manufacturers play a vital role in society, and protecting their operations is crucial for maintaining daily life functions. Partnering with cybersecurity experts who understand threat detection and response, can safeguard critical business applications, and assist in developing and implementing response plans is key to mitigating the risks associated with cyberattacks.
