IoT connectivity comes with some inherent risks, especially around cybersecurity. As organizations connect more devices, they also increase the security footprint they need to protect.
Organizations can ensure their environments are secure by practicing due diligence when selecting IoT vendors. Manufacturers and distributors should verify that vendors regularly test their devices for vulnerabilities, ideally using an independent testing company. Organizations also should inquire about a device’s ability to receive regular security updates once it’s in service. After installation, security and risk consultants suggest organizations conduct internal testing and continuously monitor their environments for IoT-related risks.
In the event of a security breach, a manufacturer should have an incident response and forensics company on retainer to quickly respond to an incident. It’s also important to have a dedicated security expert who reports to someone outside the conventional IT structure. This dedicated individual could be an in-house resource or an outsourced chief information security officer.
Learn more about cyber threats, what you can do, and what your competitors do to protect themselves in our 2018 Manufacturing & Distribution Report.
This publication contains general information only and Sikich is not, by means of this publication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or any other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should you use it as a basis for any decision, action or omission that may affect you or your business. Before making any decision, taking any action or omitting an action that may affect you or your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor. In addition, this publication may contain certain content generated by an artificial intelligence (AI) language model. You acknowledge that Sikich shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by you or any person who relies on this publication.
About the Author
Sikich
Sikich is a global company specializing in technology-enabled professional services. With more than 1,900 employees, Sikich draws on a diverse portfolio of technology solutions to deliver transformative digital strategies and is comprised of one of the largest CPA firms in the United States. From corporations and not-for-profits to state and local governments and federal agencies, Sikich clients utilize a broad spectrum of services* and products to help them improve performance and achieve long-term, strategic goals. *Securities offered through Sikich Corporate Finance LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Sikich Financial, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor.
Sign up for Insights
Join 14,000+ Business executives and decision makers.
Latest Insights
Manufacturing
Solving Manufacturing’s Toughest Planning Challenges with ...
September 18, 2025
Manufacturing
How to Spot a High-ROI Use Case for AI in Your Plant
August 22, 2025
Manufacturing
AI Literacy – The New Skill Gap in Manufacturing
August 22, 2025
Technology
How Predictive Maintenance Can Cut Costs and Boost Productiv...
August 20, 2025
Manufacturing
How Manufacturers Can Modernize Maintenance with Microsoft D...
July 24, 2025
Manufacturing
Why Manufacturing and Distribution SMBs Should Embrace Micro...
July 23, 2025
News Release
More than Half of Manufacturing Executives Maintain Optimism...
July 22, 2025
Dynamics 365>Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management
Smarter Production, Leaner Manufacturing Operations: The Cas...
June 9, 2025
Article
On Demand – Internal Controls For Fraud Prevention in ...
May 22, 2025