Addressing Industry 4.0 Cybersecurity Challenges

Abstract

Awareness is building on how managers should be involved in Industry 4.0 cybersecurity. This awareness and concern derives from heavy dependence of integrated information systems and technology for Industry 4.0. Manufacturing companies rely on data to run their operations. The Internet of Things is exponentially increasing the number of entry points for organizations to defend from nefarious actors. Complex digital value chains expose firms to risks beyond their direct control. The potential damage of cyberattacks is substantial in terms of continuity of business operations, theft of confidential information, and reputational harm. Even with this mounting sense of urgency, there is increasing confusion on what needs to be done and how. C-suite executives and entrepreneurs are puzzled due to the complexity of issues and concerns. Cybersecurity professionals, for their part, often fail to make the issue relevant and accessible to non-technical stakeholders. In this paper, we clarify why Industry 4.0 requires an evolving cybersecurity perspective. We identify where current approaches fall short and what emerging practices are gaining relevance. Our analysis is based on discussions with senior executives and an extensive literature review of academic papers and practical reports.