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The top 3 cybersecurity risks to your supply chain

14 Apr

How a cyberattack can bring logistics to a standstill

In today’s world, the logistics sector can no longer afford to overlook cybersecurity in the supply chain. While a sick colleague can be replaced or a broken machine repaired within hours, a cyber incident has the potential to throw the entire supply chain into chaos.

Take the 2017 cyberattack on Maersk, for example. It shut down two of the five largest terminals at the Port of Rotterdam. Customers were left waiting days for deliveries, and incoming traffic had to be rerouted to other ports. The total estimated cost? Around $300 million.

It’s a stark reminder that a single supply chain attack doesn’t just affect your organisation. It has ripple effects on your customers, suppliers, and partners too. In Maersk’s case, malware locked down their systems, ultimately requiring the replacement of 4,000 servers and 45,000 computers.

These 3 major cyber risks could disrupt your supply chain

1. A direct cyberattack on your organisation

A few years ago Bakker Logistiek, a key supplier to a Albert Heijn (the largest supermarket chain in the Netherlands), lost access to its logistics systems due to a ransomware attack. The malware spread rapidly, encrypting files and paralysing operations. As Bakker Logistiek’s director, Toon Verhoeven, explained: "There’s so much data flowing through our systems: which product is in which truck, when can we unload at which store? If that system goes down, everything grinds to a halt."

2. Your IT service provider is hacked

Many companies in the transport sector rely heavily on specialised IT partners: for payroll, inventory management, route planning and more. If one of those providers is compromised, attackers could use them as a gateway into your systems. Sometimes, it’s not even accidental. Service providers are increasingly targeted as weak links in the chain. If their security isn’t as robust as yours, they become the easy way in.

3. Outdated systems and vulnerable software

In the transport industry, it’s not uncommon for systems, hardware, and software to go unpatched or unreplaced for too long. This creates the perfect environment for cybercriminals. Outdated tech makes it easier to steal data, spread malware, or lock down your operations with ransomware.

Strengthening your supply chain against cyber threats

Supply chains thrive on interdependence, everything must work in harmony. When one link in the chain breaks, the entire operation is at risk. Want to start securing your supply chain today? Here are some best practices:

1. Identify your crown jewels

Which data is critical to your business? What can’t you afford to lose? Once identified, limit access to only those who absolutely need it. Less access means less risk.

2. Secure your systems

Make sure all software and hardware are fully up to date. Encrypt sensitive information and enable firewalls to build a strong technical foundation that keeps attackers at bay.

3. Activate your human firewall

Technology alone isn’t enough. Human error is the number one cause of cyber incidents. Combat this by training your employees regularly with security awareness sessions and phishing simulations. The more alert your team is, the smaller your attack surface becomes.

4. Be ready for the worst

Prevention is key and preparation is just as important. A solid risk assessment and incident response plan are essential components of your cybersecurity strategy.