Enhancing Industrial Supply Chain Security: Strategies for Integrating Emerging Technologies

As we move toward 2025, the landscape of industrial supply chain security is evolving. Key factors will include the necessity for Software Bill of Materials (SBOMs), stricter regulations, and the growing presence of AI and advanced technologies. Cyber threats are also set to increase, especially in response to political changes. Companies will need to adapt by using tools like AI, machine learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance supply chain protection and monitoring.

The rise in cyber threats emphasizes the importance of addressing industrial supply chain weaknesses. Attacks can have severe, cascading effects. Companies face the challenge of maintaining efficiency while implementing strong cybersecurity practices. This requires strategies like segmentation and access controls to reduce risk.

Organizations are now prioritizing standards and regulations to enhance supply chain security. Following established guidelines helps build trust among partners and stakeholders, making it easier to manage risks associated with complex, integrated supply chains.

In this dynamic environment, connecting cybersecurity measures with business goals is crucial. Investments in training and ongoing improvement will help develop resilient supply chains that can withstand disruptions. Combining innovation with security will better prepare organizations for future challenges, offering them a competitive edge.

Key Trends and Strategies for Industrial Supply Chain Security in 2025

Industrial Cyber consulted with experts in the field to identify the trends shaping supply chain security for 2025 and to discuss how organizations can proactively counter emerging threats.

Matt Wyckhouse, CEO of Finite State, explained that three main trends will shape industrial supply chain security in 2025: mandatory SBOMs, increased regulatory scrutiny, and the rise of AI and advanced technologies. He highlighted that with the EU’s Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), SBOMs are poised to become standard. These documents will help organizations better understand software components and associated risks.

He noted that as government oversight strengthens, organizations will need to show greater transparency and compliance. This trend may lead to a more unified approach to risk management across the globe.

Wyckhouse also mentioned that while AI can enhance threat detection, it can also introduce new vulnerabilities. Therefore, organizations need automated methods for managing SBOMs and assessing vulnerabilities in older software systems.

According to Robert Kolasky from Exiger, industrial supply chain security is a significant concern in 2025, especially with the Chinese government’s actions aimed at penetrating critical infrastructure. He pointed out that third-party suppliers are often targeted by cyber actors.

Kolasky emphasized the need for organizations to be aware of the security status of their suppliers. Expect advancements in SBOM maturity, analytic tools for assessing these materials, and enhanced focus on secure software development practices, he added.

More scrutiny will be necessary to ensure security in supply chains that support national security. Organizations should strengthen communication with peers through Information Sharing and Analysis Centers (ISACs) to counter new threats.

Syed M. Belal, from Hexagon, shared insights on how tighter convergence between operational technology and IT, along with AI-driven security measures, is reshaping supply chain security in sectors like oil and gas. He stressed the value of proactive threat detection, close collaboration with vendors, and conducting regular risk assessments to adapt to an evolving threat landscape.

Changing Dynamics with AI, ML, and IoT

Experts agree that the integration of AI, ML, and IoT is reshaping both opportunities and vulnerabilities in supply chain security.

Wyckhouse emphasized AI and ML’s potential for fast threat detection. These technologies can analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, which helps reduce false alarm rates.

However, the increase in IoT devices also expands the potential for cyber attacks. Each connected device can become a target if traditional security measures do not cover them. AI systems can similarly face risks such as data manipulation and corrupt machine learning models. Organizations must prioritize security solutions tailored for IoT and develop robust response plans for AI-related threats.

Kolasky added that newer technologies enhance automation and speed up learning. Yet, attackers often innovate quicker than defenders. This means organizations need to utilize these tools effectively to secure supply chains against emerging vulnerabilities.

He also pointed out that AI/ML is vital for both threat detection and preventive maintenance in industries like oil and gas, though the expansion of IoT poses additional risks. Aligning AI tools with robust cybersecurity frameworks is essential for maintaining resilience.

Identifying Cyberattack Vulnerabilities

Experts pinpoint the most vulnerable parts of the industrial supply chain and how attackers exploit these weaknesses. They also anticipate the types of attacks that may be more common in 2025.

Wyckhouse identified that embedded systems and IoT devices are frequent targets, often overlooked by standard security measures. Older software that isn’t updated can also become a favored attack vector.

He predicts that ransomware attacks and supply chain assaults will dominate in 2025. Ransomware remains effective and disruptive, while supply chain attacks allow hackers to penetrate multiple organizations at once.

Kolasky highlighted that heavily software-dependent areas, such as logistics and enterprise resource planning systems, are prime targets. These systems often operate in the cloud, increasing exposure to cyber threats.

Belal noted that third-party vendors and legacy systems in oil and gas are particularly vulnerable. Ransomware and supply chain-specific malware are common methods attackers use. Moving forward, ransomware-as-a-service models may become more prevalent, emphasizing the need for regular assessments and targeted security measures.

Lessons from Past Breaches

Reflecting on previous supply chain breaches, experts emphasize the key operational and financial impacts organizations must consider.

Wyckhouse outlined four primary consequences of breaches: operational disruptions, financial losses, instability in the supply chain, and loss of sensitive data. These factors can halt production, delay deliveries, incur significant costs, and damage reputations.

Kolasky cautioned that significant breaches harm daily operations, particularly when they shut down essential systems. When cybersecurity incidents jeopardize safety, the stakes are even higher. Organizations must proactively ensure transparency with suppliers to mitigate risks.

Belal added that the consequences of breaches in oil and gas can include operational shutdowns, environmental hazards, and regulatory penalties. The Colonial Pipeline incident showcased how such disruptions can impact broader systems. Companies should focus on improving incident response strategies and enhancing visibility throughout the supply chain.

Balancing Efficiency with Cybersecurity

Experts provide practical strategies for ensuring industrial organizations effectively manage supply chain efficiency alongside strong cybersecurity.

Wyckhouse advises integrating security from the development stage and automating tasks like SBOM management and vulnerability scanning to keep processes smooth. Investing in real-time monitoring is also crucial for early detection of anomalies. He suggests focusing on high-risk vulnerabilities and enforcing strict access protocols.

Kolasky emphasizes the importance of understanding the security status of critical vendors, including regular assessments. Moreover, contract terms should encourage information sharing about security incidents and compliance with secure development practices. This can lead to better communication around potential risks.

Belal recommends segmenting OT and IT networks, employing real-time threat detection, and conducting security audits of suppliers. Embedding cybersecurity into design processes while leveraging AI monitoring tools enhances efficiency without compromising security.

Using Standards for Industrial Supply Chain Security

Experts discuss how industry standards and frameworks can be utilized to bolster supply chain security while maintaining operational efficiency.

Wyckhouse states that frameworks like NIST and ISO offer structured guidelines for identifying and managing risks. Organizations that align their security practices with these standards can streamline compliance and effectively resource their security initiatives.

Kolasky adds that industry standards facilitate clear communication of security requirements with suppliers. Organizations can monitor the cybersecurity stance of critical vendors without burdening them with excessive evaluations.

Belal agrees that standards like NIST CSF and ISO 27001 offer organized guidelines for risk management. Integrating these into operational practices while automating compliance tasks helps organizations remain efficient.