Sophos’ latest report on ransomware in the manufacturing and production sector reveals alarming encryption rates and recovery challenges, emphasizing the need for robust data recovery strategies. With 68% of ransomware attacks successfully encrypting data and paying ransoms resulting in doubled recovery costs, early detection and response are crucial to mitigate the financial impact. Sophos provides key recommendations and real-life insights through their documentary series to empower organizations in strengthening their security posture against ransomware threats.
KUALA LUMPUR, 3 July 2023 – Sophos, a global leader in delivering cybersecurity services, has published a comprehensive survey report titled “The State of Ransomware in Manufacturing and Production 2023.” The report reveals alarming encryption rates in ransomware attacks against the sector and emphasizes the importance of efficient data recovery strategies. Sophos experts also provide key recommendations to mitigate the impact of ransomware attacks and strengthen overall security posture.
According to the report, 68% of ransomware attacks targeting manufacturing and production organizations successfully encrypted data, marking the highest rate observed in the past three years. While there is an encouraging increase in the adoption of backups for data recovery, with 73% of surveyed organizations utilizing backups this year compared to 58% in the previous year, the sector still faces challenges in achieving optimal data recovery rates. Furthermore, paying a ransom not only incurs substantial costs but also doubles the expenses associated with recovery, highlighting the importance of early detection and response to minimize financial burdens.
Sophos experts recommend implementing defensive shields, including robust security tools that defend against common attack vectors, adopting adaptive technologies for automated response, and ensuring 24/7 threat detection, investigation, and response capabilities. Additionally, organizations should focus on optimizing attack preparation through regular backups, practicing data recovery, and maintaining an up-to-date incident response plan. Good security hygiene, such as timely patching and reviewing security tool configurations, is also crucial in maintaining a strong security posture.
To provide a real-life perspective, Sophos has released a compelling three-part documentary series titled “Think You Know Ransomware?” The series features insights from industry experts and an interview with the chief information security officer of Norsk Hydro, offering valuable lessons from a major ransomware attack against a manufacturing company.
The full report, “The State of Ransomware in Manufacturing and Production,” is available for download on the Sophos website.
