Safeguarding packaging lines: a cybersecurity imperative

To safeguard against cyber threats, a multi-layered cybersecurity approach is imperative. Credit: yuda chen / Shutterstock

The packaging industry, a vital cog in global supply chains, has undergone a technological transformation, integrating sophisticated machinery to enhance efficiency and productivity.  

However, this digital evolution has inadvertently created a new battleground: the cyber domain.  

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, once insulated from the digital world, are now interconnected, presenting a tempting target for cybercriminals. 

Adam Brown, a security consultant at Synopsys Software Integrity Group, underscores the gravity of the situation.  

“Industrial control systems (which includes packaging machinery and their ecosystems) should have been put together and tested in accordance with ISA62443 to limit the impact of cybersecurity attacks.  

Regular assessments following updates to configurations and software would look for open interfaces, weaknesses, security misconfigurations, or missing security controls, all of which attackers will be looking to exploit.” 

Cyberattacks on packaging machinery can manifest in various ways, with potentially devastating consequences. 

Disrupting production lines through ransomware or denial-of-service attacks can cause substantial financial losses due to downtime, missed delivery deadlines, and damage to customer relationships.  

Moreover, the introduction of malicious code can compromise product quality, leading to recalls, brand damage, and legal liabilities.  

In extreme cases, cyberattacks could potentially be used for physical sabotage, jeopardising the safety of employees and facilities. 

“If an attacker reaches the control plane where PLCs may sit via interfaces locally such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or even physically via USB, debug, or ethernet ports, then the potential consequences could at least be to stop the machinery from functioning properly or at all, therefore halting business and creating significant cost,” adds Brown. 

“Further, with access at this level, an attacker could decide to tamper with packaging printing or the packaging itself to cause defects or to change the package imaging.” 

To safeguard against these threats, a multi-layered cybersecurity approach is imperative. 

By meticulously identifying potential vulnerabilities and attack vectors, organisations can prioritise mitigation efforts and allocate resources effectively. 

This involves a comprehensive assessment of hardware, software, network infrastructure, and human factors that could contribute to vulnerabilities.

“On the software layer, threat modelling should be conducted; typical threats relate to assets that threat actors would like to access or control,” says Brown.

“Assets include stored secrets (passwords and security keys) that attackers could use to either elevate their foothold once in or use on other systems that the organisation or users’ access, data such as product images or text that attackers may change, or control systems that attackers may disable or subvert.”

Secure software development practices are equally critical. 

Regular software updates and patching are essential to address known vulnerabilities and prevent attackers from exploiting them.

“Security controls around these things should be implemented to prevent this kind of weakness in technical architecture.” says Brown.

“Also, manufacturers and system integrators should conduct composition analysis on code and binaries in use to identify known vulnerabilities; manufacturers especially should conduct code reviews on the code their engineers create to ensure weaknesses and vulnerabilities have not been introduced.”

The human element often represents the weakest link in the cybersecurity chain.

Employees must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognise and respond to cyber threats, such as phishing attacks and social engineering tactics.

Implementing robust access controls, limiting user privileges, and enforcing strong password policies can help prevent unauthorised access.

Network segmentation is another vital defines mechanism. By isolating critical systems and limiting lateral movement, organisations can contain the spread of a cyberattack. 

Firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and endpoint protection solutions should be deployed to monitor and protect the network perimeter.

Incident response planning is essential for minimising the impact of a cyberattack. 

Developing a comprehensive incident response plan, including clear procedures for detection, containment, eradication, recovery, and lessons learned, is crucial.

Regular testing and simulation exercises can ensure the plan's effectiveness.

The industrial internet of things (IIoT) has further amplified the cyber risks facing the packaging industry. 

As more devices become interconnected, the attack surface expands, creating new opportunities for cybercriminals. 

To address this challenge, organisations must adopt a holistic approach to cybersecurity that encompasses the entire IIoT ecosystem.

Data privacy and protection are also critical considerations. 

Packaging companies handle sensitive customer data, which can be a lucrative target for cybercriminals. 

Implementing robust data protection measures, such as encryption and data loss prevention, is essential to safeguard customer information.

Collaboration within the industry is also essential for combating cyber threats. 

Sharing information about threats, vulnerabilities, and best practices can help the industry to improve its cybersecurity posture. 

Industry associations and standards organisations can play a vital role in developing and promoting cybersecurity guidelines and certifications.

The packaging industry faces a complex and evolving threat landscape. By investing in robust cybersecurity measures, organisations can protect their operations, safeguard their reputation, and maintain the trust of customers and consumers.

The future of the packaging industry depends on its ability to secure its operations.

By prioritising cybersecurity, companies can build resilience, protect their intellectual property, and maintain the trust of customers and consumers.