Understanding the Need for Cybersecurity in Manufacturing Environment

Abstract

Connected devices help us in many ways. They have made our lives easy and safe. With the introduction of Internet of Things (IoT), a lot of innovation has been driven in the manufacturing sector. However, it brings along with itself serious challenges too. The increase in the penetration of IoT has opened the doors for attackers with now even more surface area prone to attacks. The more machines connected the more the data is exchanged which implies more exposure of information which could be confidential and sensitive. Manufacturing units are the first line of defense in safeguarding a country’s capabilities. The information leaked through these channels is not only economically disastrous but also a serious concern for the security of a nation. There is a growing need to keep a check on the information that could be leaked. Cybersecurity plays an important role in preventing the misuse of the data collected through millions of devices nowadays. First, there is a need to spread awareness about the implications of data theft in the manufacturing environment and then understanding the need for cybersecurity in this environment.