Cybersecurity trends for the food industry

The food industry is undergoing a deep digital transformation. Production plants are becoming smarter, more connected, and automated, but this evolution also brings a new reality: an increase in cyberattacks. Protecting information, processes, and business continuity has become a strategic necessity. This is because a cyberattack can lead to supply shortages, compromise food safety, or cause significant financial losses.

The rise of sensors, connected devices, traceability software, and automated management systems has opened new doors that cybercriminals can exploit if not addressed in time.

Some of the most common cyberattacks in this industry include:

• Ransomware: Locking of computer systems in exchange for a ransom.
  
  
• Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks: Overloading servers or digital services.
  
  
• Phishing and social engineering: Deceptive tactics aimed at employees to gain access.
  
  
• Intrusions in industrial systems (SCADA, PLC, IoT): Sabotaging production processes.

In this article, we explore the main cybersecurity trends in the food industry based on our cybersecurity guide for the sector.

Key cybersecurity trends in the food industry

Cybersecurity by design: preventing before reacting

One of the most relevant trends in recent years is the adoption of the "Security by Design" approach. This involves incorporating cybersecurity from the early stages of any technological project, rather than adding it afterward as a patch.

In practice, this means analyzing risks from the moment a new software, connected machine, or automation system is introduced. This way, access protocols, network segmentation, supplier validation, and security requirements can be defined before the systems go live.

This proactive approach not only enhances protection but also reduces costs and prevents future disruptions.

IT and OT network segmentation: a necessary barrier

In many production plants, office environments (IT) and industrial systems (OT) are connected, sometimes without clear separation. This interconnection can become a significant weak point. An attack that starts with a simple malicious email on an office computer can affect production lines if there are no proper barriers in place.

Network segmentation involves dividing and isolating different technological areas within an organization. In the food industry, it is recommended to establish a clear separation between IT and OT environments using firewalls, VLAN networks, or access control systems.

This measure limits the spread of any threat and protects the continuity of the production process.

Continuous monitoring and early detection

Modern cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Many of them remain hidden for days or weeks before being activated. Therefore, having continuous monitoring tools is an increasing trend in the more advanced companies in the sector.

Systems such as IDS (Intrusion Detection Systems), SIEM (Security Information and Event Management), or platforms specific to industrial environments allow for real-time monitoring of network and device behavior.

The goal is to detect any unusual activity—such as unusual access or unauthorized data transfer—and take action immediately before major damage occurs.

Access control and identity management

A key aspect of protecting systems is controlling who has access to which resources. This principle, known as Identity and Access Management (IAM), is particularly important in industrial environments, where often different profiles of employees, external technicians, or suppliers interact with the same systems.

Companies are increasingly adopting measures such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), least privilege assignment (access only to what is necessary), and access auditing.

These controls significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access, human error, or misuse of credentials.

Update and patch management in industrial devices

A critical trend that still presents challenges is the updating and patching of connected devices in industrial environments. In many cases, SCADA systems, PLCs, or smart sensors operate for years without maintenance, making them easy targets for cybercriminals.

Each unpatched known vulnerability represents an open door for a potential attack. For this reason, more and more companies are implementing patch management policies that allow for periodic and secure system updates without affecting production.

Having an up-to-date inventory of all digital assets is the first step in managing updates efficiently.

Cyber resilience testing and attack simulations

Another growing trend in the food industry is conducting cyberattack simulations to assess the organization's preparedness. These tests help identify weaknesses in internal procedures, assess response times to threats, and improve coordination between departments.

Examples include:

• Ransomware attack simulations to test backup and recovery protocols.
• Intrusion tests (pentesting) to check if systems can be breached from the outside.
• Incident response exercises involving IT, OT, production, and management teams.

These actions help strengthen the cybersecurity culture within the company and prepare teams for real-life situations.

The digitalization of the food sector has brought enormous benefits, but also new challenges that cannot be ignored. Cybersecurity is no longer just a technical issue: it is a key component in ensuring business continuity, product quality, and the trust of consumers, distributors, and regulators.

Adopting measures such as network segmentation, real-time monitoring, access control, and system updates is essential to reduce risks and anticipate attacks. Furthermore, integrating security from the design of systems and conducting incident response drills are fundamental steps to strengthen the cyber resilience of organizations.

Now more than ever, the food industry needs a comprehensive approach that combines technology, processes, and organizational culture to face digital threats with confidence. And having a specialized partner can make all the difference.

At ESED, we assist companies in the sector with implementing cybersecurity strategies tailored to their operational and regulatory realities.