Introduction

Cyberattacks on UK manufacturers surged by 68% in 2024, costing businesses millions in downtime and lost contracts. As factories modernise with IoT, cloud ERP, and connected supply chains, they’ve become prime targets for cybercriminals. The challenge? Many manufacturers still rely on legacy infrastructure and overstretched IT teams.

This blog explores the top 7 cybersecurity threats facing manufacturers in 2025, why they matter, and how you can defend your operations. By the end, you’ll know where your risks lie, and what steps to take to protect your factory.

---

Cybersecurity for Manufacturing

Cybersecurity for manufacturing protects factories, intellectual property, and supply chains from threats such as ransomware, phishing, and supply chain attacks. It combines technology, processes, and people to secure both IT and OT environments.

Key components include:

• IT/OT integration: Safeguarding operational technology alongside IT networks (NCSC guidance).

• Threat protection: Firewalls, intrusion detection, and encryption to block attacks (ENISA IoT security best practices).

• Employee training: Reducing human error with regular awareness programs (NCSC phishing guide).

• Compliance: Meeting standards like NIS2, GDPR, and IEC 62443.

• AI & automation: Detecting and responding to threats in real time (IBM Data Breach Report 2025).

• Incident response: Plans to minimise downtime and recovery costs (NCSC ransomware guide).

Top threats in 2025:

• Ransomware disrupting production.

• Supply chain breaches via third parties.

• Intellectual property theft of designs and data.

Best practices:

• Invest in layered security tools.

• Train IT and OT staff regularly.

• Conduct risk assessments and audits.

• Partner with cybersecurity experts.

---

1. Ransomware on the Factory Floor

Ransomware remains the number one cyber threat to manufacturers. Attackers encrypt production systems, demanding payment to restore access. With downtime costing thousands per minute, many firms feel forced to pay, but that doesn’t guarantee recovery.

Mitigation: Regular offline backups, incident response drills, and advanced endpoint protection

---

2. Phishing and Social Engineering

Human error is still the weakest link. In 2025, phishing emails have become more sophisticated, often impersonating suppliers or regulators. One careless click can open the door to credential theft and data breaches.

Mitigation: Ongoing staff training, multi-factor authentication, and email filtering (Phishing guidance).

---

3. IoT and OT Device Vulnerabilities

From connected CNC machines to smart sensors, IoT and OT devices are often shipped with weak security settings. Once compromised, attackers can disrupt operations or pivot into wider networks.

Mitigation: Network segmentation, firmware patching, and strict access controls (ENISA IoT practices).

---

4. Supply Chain Attacks

Manufacturers depend on global suppliers and digital integrations. In 2025, cybercriminals increasingly target third-party vendors to gain access. One weak supplier can compromise the entire chain.

Mitigation: Supplier audits, zero-trust principles, and vendor risk management (NCSC supply chain security).

---

5. Insider Threats

Not all risks come from outside. Disgruntled employees, contractors, or even accidental insider actions can expose sensitive data or halt operations.

Mitigation: Role-based access, monitoring tools, and clear offboarding processes (Insider threats).

---

6. Legacy Systems and Patch Gaps

Many UK manufacturers still run legacy ERP or control systems that are hard to patch without disrupting production. Attackers know this and exploit outdated software.

Mitigation: Virtual patching, risk-based upgrade plans, and managed IT support (Cost of data breach).

---

7. Compliance and Cyber Insurance Pressure

With GDPR, ISO 27001, and stricter cyber insurance policies, compliance failures can mean fines or denied claims. In 2025, insurers increasingly demand proof of robust controls before offering coverage.

Mitigation: Regular audits, compliance reporting, and documented policies (ISO 27001 standard).

---

Future Trends: What’s Next for Manufacturing Cybersecurity?

• AI-driven attacks: Cybercriminals now use AI to craft phishing emails and automate breaches.

• Zero-trust adoption: Manufacturers increasingly adopt zero-trust networks to protect against insider and supplier risks.

• Insurance-driven security: Cyber insurance requirements are shaping investment decisions.

• Regulatory spotlight: More audits expected under UK cyber resilience rules.

---

Conclusion

Cybersecurity for manufacturing isn’t optional in 2025, it’s critical to survival. The top threats include ransomware, phishing, IoT risks, supply chain attacks, insider threats, legacy systems, and compliance gaps. By taking proactive steps today, you can reduce downtime, avoid fines, and protect your competitive edge.

Next step: Book a free cybersecurity audit for manufacturers with Cirrus and uncover hidden vulnerabilities before attackers do.

Contact Us on 0330 130 966
Email hello@thinkcirrus.co.uk