Dec 04, 2024
Securing Critical Assets for Automotive Industries
Automotive factories are highly complex environments, integrating advanced manufacturing systems, robotics, and intricate supply chain logistics. Protecting critical assets is essential, and TXOne Networks delivers purpose-built solutions to safeguard production lines, data, and operational excellence.
The Escalating Cybersecurity Challenges in Automotive Manufacturing Sites
Cybersecurity in automotive manufacturing sites is just as critical as cybersecurity in IT systems and within vehicles. As the market expands, so do the threats of malicious attacks. The primary cybersecurity challenges arise from increasing digitalization, the proliferation of connected devices, and the rise of Industry 4.0. Like other OT environments, robust cybersecurity measures are essential for protecting assets. Overcoming these challenges is a strategic priority for the successful implementation of cybersecurity in the industry.
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Complexity of Systems
The production flow within an automotive manufacturing site is extensive and involves a complex integration of systems. These include machinery and equipment such as CNC machines, robotic arms, stamping and welding stations, as well as conveyor, tooling, energy, and utility systems. It’s a vast network of diverse assets in various form factors, operating on multiple systems with varying levels of computing power.
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Supply Chain Risks
Automotive manufacturing sites rely on digital systems, making them prime cyberattack targets. Key risks include ransomware, exploited third-party vulnerabilities, and risks introduced at each maintenance window.
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Regulatory Compliance
Like other industrial sectors, the automotive manufacturing industry adheres to multiple widely adopted regulations, including IEC 62443, ISO 26262, ISO/SAE 21434, WP.29, and TiSAX. Striking a balance between regulatory compliance and production efficiency is a shared goal across the industry.
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Highly Divergent Setups
There is no one-size-fits-all security solution across different stations in the automotive production line, and security implementations can vary significantly between automotive vendors. A successful approach for one vendor may not be applicable to another, making tailored security solutions essential.
Address OT Cybersecurity from the Greatest Common
Pain Points
Cybersecurity is only as strong as its weakest link. Implementing a layered security approach with a combination of protective measures is highly recommended for OT cybersecurity in the automotive industry. In today’s highly automated factories, the focus of cybersecurity leans more toward asset protection rather than human factors, similar to other OT sectors.
Automotive Manufacturing System Architecture Overview
Among all asset types, common pain points include:
- Constraints in installing security software agents
- Limited internet access for cloud-based security scans
- Rapid propagation of cyber incidents in flat OT networks, making containment challenging
- Lack of security updates and support for legacy systems
- Restricted vendor options due to industry regulations
TXOne Networks is committed to establishing a comprehensive asset lifecycle defense framework for automotive manufacturing and its supply chain.
From the initial asset design stages, we integrate essential cybersecurity measures to support modern smart factories. We address the protection needs of assets throughout their entire lifecycle, building a strong cybersecurity foundation that enables automotive vendors to focus on production excellence.
Asset Security Inspection
TXOne’s Portable Inspector is a fast, installation-free malware scanning tool in a USB form factor, ideal for assets where additional software installation is not feasible.
Supply Chain Security
The Safe Port security kiosk serves as a gatekeeper for all incoming storage media, establishing a strong defense against malware inadvertently introduced into OT environments.
Vulnerability Management
ElementOne gathers system data, alerts operators of vulnerabilities that require attention, and recommends patches. It also creates malware-free reports to simplify security audits.
Multi-Method Threat Defense
TXOne's endpoint solution, Stellar, encompasses active scanning, application lockdown, and advanced detection capabilities, supporting systems from Windows XP to the latest versions.
Network Security
The Edge product line offers industrial firewall and IPS appliances designed to protect OT environments from network threats. It features a comprehensive range of form factors to suit diverse operational needs.
Security Governance
ElementOne visualizes the security posture across multiple control points, completing TXOne’s holistic offerings from detection to protection and governance. It is optimized in alignment with global security frameworks.
Make Your Next Move
TXOne Networks has extensive experience serving automotive manufacturers on a global scale. We understand the automotive industry and the way our solutions enhance security posture. Contact our experts to discover why TXOne Networks is the right choice for securing your operational technology.
