Ransomware has become one of the most disruptive threats facing manufacturers today. Unlike other industries, a successful attack in manufacturing doesn’t just affect email or file access… it can stop production lines, delay shipments, disrupt supply chains, and create safety risks on the plant floor. Because downtime is so costly, manufacturers are often targeted precisely because attackers expect pressure to restore operations quickly.
Step 1: Start with network visibility.
Most manufacturers operate a mix of modern IT systems and legacy operational technology (OT) that has been in place for years. Without a clear understanding of what systems exist, who owns them, and how they connect, it’s nearly impossible to defend against ransomware effectively. Maintaining accurate inventories of both IT and OT assets allows organizations to identify critical systems, understand risk exposure, and prioritize protections where they matter most.
Network design plays a major role in limiting the impact of ransomware. In environments where networks are flat and systems freely communicate, an infection that starts on a single workstation can quickly spread into production systems. Segmentation between IT and OT networks, along with tightly controlled access paths, helps contain threats and prevents a localized incident from becoming a full operational shutdown. While segmentation won’t stop every attack, it significantly reduces the blast radius when something goes wrong.
Step 2: Control Who has access… and when they have it.
Identity and access management is another cornerstone of ransomware readiness. Many attacks begin with compromised credentials, often obtained through scams like phishing or reused passwords. Enforcing multi-factor authentication, eliminating shared accounts, and applying least-privilege access reduces the likelihood that attackers can move freely through systems. This is especially important for remote access and vendor connections, which are common in manufacturing environments and frequently targeted.
Backups are often discussed as the last line of defense, but not all backups are created equal. For ransomware preparation, manufacturers need backups that are isolated from the main network, protected from tampering, and regularly tested. Untested backups can fail when they’re needed most. Knowing that systems and data can be reliably restored provides options beyond paying a ransom.
Step 3: Patch what you can, protect what you can’t.
Patching and vulnerability management in manufacturing requires a balanced approach. While IT systems can often be updated regularly, many OT systems cannot be patched without disrupting production or risking system stability. In these cases, preparation focuses on compensating controls such as network isolation, monitoring, and strict access controls. The goal is not perfection, but meaningful risk reduction that aligns with operational realities.
Technical controls alone are not enough. Manufacturers also need a well-defined incident response plan that outlines how ransomware events are handled before one occurs. This includes identifying decision-makers, defining communication procedures, understanding legal and regulatory obligations, and coordinating with cyber insurance providers. Practicing these plans through tabletop exercises helps leadership respond calmly and decisively under pressure.
Step 4: Empower Employees as Your First Line of Defense
Employees play a critical role as well. Phishing remains one of the most common entry points for ransomware, and manufacturing staff are often targeted through routine-looking emails related to invoices, shipping, or vendors. Ongoing security awareness training, paired with clear reporting processes, helps catch potential threats early—often before they escalate into full incidents.
Step 5: Extend Security Beyond Your Walls
Finally, ransomware preparation must extend beyond the organization itself. Manufacturers rely heavily on third parties, including equipment vendors, software providers, and managed service partners. Each connection represents a potential entry point. Assessing vendor risk, limiting access to only what is necessary, and reviewing third-party security practices are essential components of a resilient ransomware strategy.
Need help? We’re only a call away.
Preparing for ransomware is ultimately about building resilient IT processes. InfoPathways works with manufacturers to helps build practical, enforceable policies and response plans tailored to your operations, so you can maintain continuity, even in the face of evolving cyber threats.