Why Ransomware is a Major Threat to Manufacturing & How to Prevent It

Ransomware isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a serious threat to manufacturers. It can shut down production, expose sensitive data and cost millions in downtime and recovery. In an industry built on tight schedules and complex supply chains, one breach can throw operations, suppliers and customers into chaos.

The Rising Threat in Manufacturing

Ransomware is becoming a serious problem in high specification manufacturing, where precision, regulation and uninterrupted operations are critical. An attack can shut down vital systems, expose sensitive information and cause delays that spread through supply chains and into national security. The financial damage is severe, but the greater risk comes from undermining trust, creating safety issues and handing valuable advantages to hostile actors.

🚗 Automotive: Jaguar Land Rover

This is shown directly at the moment with the JLR (Jaguar Land Rover) cyber attack, publicly disclosed on the 2nd of September. Whilst this has not been confirmed as a Ransomware attack, the group behing the attack is known for data theft and ransomware. The current impact of these attacks has led to production being halted at 4 sites since 31st of August and is expected to continue until atleast the 17th September. The revenue loss due to this shutdown is reported as £72 million a day (Autocar) and there are reports some suppliers are now facing bankrupcy (BBC). As you can see the cost to a company of ignoring these issues can be life or death and this does not even mention long term costs.

✈️ Aerospace: Jamco Aerospace Attack

Jamco Aerospace, a key supplier to Boeing, the US Navy and Northrop Grumman, was targeted in a ransomware attack by the Play group on 6 August 2025. The attackers claimed to have exfiltrated sensitive data, including payroll records, client files, IDs, budgets, taxes and accounting documents. They threatened to publish this information unless a ransom was paid by 10 August. As of now, Jamco has not publicly acknowledged the breach and the authenticity of the stolen data remains unverified. The Play group is known for its double extortion tactics, encrypting systems and threatening to release stolen data to partners or the public. This incident highlights the increasing risk of cyberattacks in the aerospace and defence sectors, where sensitive information and complex supply chains make organisations prime targets. (cybernews)

🛡️ Defense: Inflite The Jet Centre Ltd

A ransomware attack on Inflite The Jet Centre, a UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) contractor, compromised the personal data of approximately 3,700 individuals, including Afghan refugees, UK service personnel and former government ministers. The breach exposed sensitive information such as names, dates of birth, passport numbers and Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy reference numbers. The incident occurred between January and March 2024 and was reported to the Information Commissioner's Office, National Crime Agency and National Cyber Security Centre. While the MoD confirmed that no government systems were compromised, the breach has raised concerns about data security and the protection of vulnerable individuals. (Guardian)

These attacks illustrate that manufacturers, whether small or large, face operational and financial risk from ransomware. The connected nature of modern industrial systems (IoT devices, MES, ERP and remote access tools) increases the attack surface.

Why Manufacturers Are Vulnerable

Legacy Systems: Many factories still run outdated operating systems or software that lacks modern security patches. If you are not getting updates for a system then you cannot be getting security fixes for newly identified vulnerabilities.

Connected Devices: IoT sensors and PLCs (programmable logic controllers) often lack robust security, offering an entry point for attackers.

Human Error: Phishing emails and weak credentials remain the most common ransomware vectors.

Supply Chain Risks: Connected suppliers or contractors can introduce vulnerabilities into otherwise secure networks.

What Can Be Done?

Preventing ransomware requires a proactive, multi-layered approach. There is no one size fits all and there is no solution that is 100% effective. But there are things you can do to improve your security and how you respond in the event of a breach.

Employee Training: Educate staff on phishing, suspicious downloads and safe password practices.

Regular Backups: Maintain offline and offsite backups of all critical data and systems. Test restoration regularly.

Patch and Update Systems: Keep all software, including IoT and ERP systems, up to date to close known vulnerabilities.

Network Segmentation: Isolate critical operational systems from office networks to limit the spread of attacks.

Access Control: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) and least-privilege access to minimise exposure.

Incident Response Plan: Have a clear procedure for ransomware events, including communication protocols and legal reporting obligations.

Cybersecurity Tools: Deploy endpoint protection, intrusion detection and real-time monitoring tailored to industrial environments.

Real-World Lessons

Manufacturers that recover quickly often share common traits: frequent backups, segmented networks and employee vigilance. Those without preparation face weeks of downtime, reputational damage and regulatory scrutiny.

Conclusion

Ransomware is a real and immediate threat to any manufacturer using digital systems. Cybersecurity is not just about protecting data; it is vital for keeping production moving, maintaining customer confidence and safeguarding profits.

It is not a question of if an attack will happen, but when. The difference comes down to how well your organisation can prevent it and respond effectively.