
With the advent of industry 4.0, the Internet of Things (IoT) will be expanded and the comprehensive digitisation of business operations will include physical and digital technologies such as additive manufacturing, robotics, high-performance computing, artificial intelligence and cognitive technologies, advanced materials, and augmented reality.
Connected and smart manufacturing and responsive digital supply networks with tailored products and services are the hallmarks of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) or Industry 4.0. The interconnectedness of industry 4.0 drives the pace of digital transformation which also means that new operational risks have been identified and threat vectors drastically expand and the effects of cyberattacks will be more wide-ranging than before. Manufacturers and their supply networks should be prepared for the risks and cybersecurity strategies should be fully integrated into organisational and information technology strategies.
From linear supply chains to digital supply networks (DSNs)Â
Linked to consumer demand, a manufacturing organisation’s supply chain is fundamental to its sustainability. Analytics allow forecasts to determine the quantity of materials necessary, manufacturing line requirements, and distribution channel loads. Through intelligent, connected platforms and devices, Industry 4.0 technologies are expected to evolve the traditional linear supply into digital supply networks (DSNs). These networks will capture and supply data across the value chain resulting in improved management, flow of materials and goods, and more efficient use of resources and supplies.
The disadvantage of the increased real-time interconnectedness is cyber weaknesses that need to be imagined from design through operation and planned and accounted for at every stage.
The cyber risksÂ
Responsive, agile networks enabled by real-time and open data sharing from all participants in the supply network, create a significant hurdle and organisations should consider ways to secure that information to disallow unauthorised access. Disciplined action will be needed to maintain safety nets across all supporting processes as they may also have access points to other internal and sensitive information.
Incorporating future devices provide robust cryptologic support, hardware authentication, and attestation (that is, detect when unauthorized changes are made to the device). By combining this approach with robust access controls, mission-critical operations technology is secured at the application points and endpoints to protect its data and processes.
Experts suggest that blockchain technology may help with potential payment process risks and changes by creating a historical ledger that is shared by a communityÂ