Transportation and logistics companies have been quick to digitize, a move which has improved all upstream and downstream operations of the industry.
The result has been substantial gains in both efficiency and revenue, but it hasn’t come without serious risks. Logistics industry leaders must balance these unprecedented technology gains with data security, as the move towards digitization has also made logistics companies highly vulnerable to cyber attacks.
For many logistics companies, proactive cyber security policies have not been a priority, but firms can no longer maintain a hands-off approach.
Rail, maritime, trucking, logistics, and packaging sectors have all been affected by the increase in cyber threats. Consequences of these malicious attacks include higher costs, interrupted operations, and increased liabilities where sensitive customer data has been breached.
Key cyber security risks for the logistics sector
The adoption of internet-based technologies has increased the cyber attack surface of logistics companies.
Highly connected
Valuable networks that enable digital improvements, such as shipment tracking and automated ordering, require sensitive information. This information often lacks strict cyber-protection, making these channels insecure.
Many third-party vendors and stakeholders
Security disruptions in any part of the logistics supply chain can mean lost revenue and frustrated customers. Vigilance over the cyber security of third party systems, software, and networks can minimize risk.
Regulation
The transportation and logistics industry suffers from lagging cyber regulations and standards, so cyber security investments are not optimized to reduce risk exposure.
Soteryan Solutions
Best practices for cyber security in logistics
Logistics companies must take cyber security seriously. This means researching and choosing vendors who prioritize the cyber security of their digital products. Consider isolating IoT devices using network segmentation to prevent a device compromise from spreading through the entire IT network. Staying up-to-date with regulations and implementing data encryption and other security best practices can go a long way towards building a secure foundation.
Working with a trusted managed security provider can help logistics companies accomplish these cyber security objectives. Soteryan’s security experts can provide guidance to help logistics leaders adapt to the evolving threat landscape and neutralize digital risks.
Threats targeting the transportation and logistics sector can come from:
- Criminals
- Terrorist groups
- Hacktivists
- Disgruntled or former employees
- Competitors
- Nation states
- Network operation mistakes
Soteryan Solution
Defend against the new generation of attacks with zero trust security
As digitization increases the attack surface for logistics companies, a zero trust security approach helps companies navigate the complex threat landscape with confidence.
Learn more about the zero trust approach
