Manufacturing is frequently targeted by phishing attacks due to its critical role in the supply chain. A 2022 report by Cybersecurity Insiders found that 71% of manufacturing companies had experienced a phishing attack in the past year

Phishing attacks overall surged by 58.2% in 2023, driven by the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals using advanced tools like generative AI. This rise is particularly concerning for industries like manufacturing, which are heavily targeted due to their operational importance​

According to the 2024 State of the Phish report, over 70% of employees admitted to risky behaviors that leave them vulnerable to phishing attacks. This highlights the critical need for ongoing employee training and awareness programs in the manufacturing sector

Phishing attacks can have severe financial impacts on businesses, especially in the manufacturing sector. According to IBM's Cost of a Data Breach Report 2023, the average cost of a data breach in the manufacturing sector is $4.73 million. This figure includes costs related to detection, response, lost business, and regulatory fines

Phishing attacks have become increasingly sophisticated, utilizing advanced techniques to deceive victims. For example: AI and Automation: Cybercriminals are leveraging AI tools to create more convincing phishing emails, making it harder for individuals to distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent messages. This includes the use of deepfake technology for voice phishing (vishing) and generating highly personalized phishing emails

Phishing attacks targeting the manufacturing sector can have a ripple effect, disrupting entire supply chains. This makes manufacturers attractive targets for cybercriminals looking to cause widespread disruption and pressure victims into paying ransoms