Cybersecurity in the food industry

According to an IBM report, the average cost of a data breach in the manufacturing industry (including food) exceeds $4.5 million. With a highly interconnected supply chain, automated production systems, and increasing digitalization, this sector is becoming more vulnerable to cyberattacks.

Digitalization in the food industry and its risks

Companies in the food sector have integrated technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), ERP systems, and industrial automation (OT) to improve efficiency and traceability in their processes. However, this digital transformation has also opened the door to new cyber threats, putting not only their information at risk but also their operational continuity.

Main cybersecurity risks facing the food industry

Ransomware attacks

When a system suffers a cyberattack, it can paralyze production, disrupt distribution, and cause significant financial losses.

Ransomware attacks involve infecting a system, encrypting its files and data, and demanding a ransom, usually in cryptocurrency, to restore access to the information. If the company refuses to pay, the attackers threaten to publish the information on the Dark Web.

Industrial sabotage

Manipulating SCADA and PLC systems in production plants could affect food safety and quality, posing both economic and health risks.

Sensitive data leaks

Information about product formulas, suppliers, or customers can be stolen and used in unfair competition or to extort the company.

Tools like WWatcher can help prevent internal data leaks. It connects to the company’s WorkPlace and limits the daily number of downloads a user can make. If the user exceeds the limit, an alert is triggered, and the user is locked, preventing a massive data leak.

Supply chain attacks

Cybercriminals can access systems through third parties, such as software providers or distributors, creating an extended threat.

According to an article by seguridadred.com, in 2023, eight out of ten companies felt vulnerable to supply chain cyberattacks. The introduction of new technologies for greater efficiency, like the cloud and IoT, has intensified cyber threats in the supply chain.

Identity theft and financial fraud

Compromised emails, phishing, and social engineering attacks can jeopardize financial transactions and business agreements.

The impact of a cyberattack on the food industry

The consequences of a cyberattack in this sector can be devastating:

• Economic losses: From production interruptions to fines for non-compliance with security regulations.
• Reputational damage: A cyberattack can cause a loss of trust among consumers and business partners.
• Compromise of food safety: Manipulations in processes could affect product quality, jeopardizing public health.
• Legal consequences: Complying with regulations such as the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) in the U.S. or the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU is mandatory, and a vulnerability could lead to heavy fines.

How to prevent cyberattacks in the food industry

To minimize risks, companies in the sector must implement a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. Some key measures include:

Network and system security

Implement advanced firewalls, network segmentation, and regular software updates.

Threat monitoring and detection

Use artificial intelligence tools and continuous monitoring to detect suspicious patterns.

Sensitive data protection

Encrypt critical information and set up role-based access controls.

Supply chain cybersecurity

Evaluate the security of third parties and require adequate protection measures.

Employee training

Cybersecurity education reduces the likelihood of phishing attacks and other social engineering techniques.

Incident response plans

Have clear protocols in place to mitigate the impact of an attack and restore operations quickly.

The importance of having an IT partner specialized in cybersecurity

Due to the complexity of the threat landscape, many companies in the food industry are opting to work with IT partners specialized in cybersecurity. Why is this decision crucial?

• Industry experience: A provider with expertise in the food industry understands the specific risks and applicable regulations.
• Proactive protection: Implementation of advanced solutions like Zero Trust, behavior analysis, and real-time threat detection.
• Regulatory compliance: Advisory services to ensure the company complies with local and international regulations.
• 24/7 support: Immediate monitoring and response to security incidents.
• Long-term cost reduction: Prevention is more cost-effective than recovery after an attack.
  
  

With digitalization on the rise and the growing sophistication of cyberattacks, protecting IT infrastructure is essential to ensure operational continuity and food safety.

Working with an IT partner specialized in cybersecurity allows companies to mitigate risks, comply with regulations, and operate more securely in an increasingly threatened environment.