Sensitive information such as financial transactions and customer information are valuable to criminals. A single attack can cause major disruptions in the whole supply chain, irreparable damage to the system, and may even force the entire system to stop working because global logistics networks are complex, interconnected, and interdependent. The connections within the supply chain itself introduce another layer of complexity which increases the likelihood of undiscovered vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. This is why cyberattacks target this delicate balance.

Accordingly, balancing the benefits of Digital Transformation with strong cyber security is one of the major challenges that the logistics industry is currently facing, and will become even more challenging in the future. Stakeholders therefore need to be aware of the threats they face and take measures to protect their operations and their partners to safeguard against any catastrophe.

At any rate, protecting logistics operations from cyber threats is a complex task. No measure can provide absolute safety. Strong cyber security requires a comprehensive, multi-layered approach that incorporates strategies and measures, especially employee training, as employee negligence can account for up to 48% direct cyberattacks. As a result, employees are often the first line of defense against cyber threats. They must understand the importance of maintaining strict cybersecurity practices. An effective training program can equip employees with the knowledge to identify and respond to threats such as phishing or other suspicious behaviors.

By 2028, Gartner expects that Generative AI will help bridge the skills gap by eliminating the need for specialized education of entry-level cybersecurity positions by more than 50%. This technology will impact the way organizations hire and train cybersecurity employees.

In addition, strong cyber security policies are also essential to protect the digital supply chain. It should specify the safe use of internal systems, outline procedures for identifying and reporting threats, and create protocols for regular update of software systems.

The smooth functioning of an automated warehouse system relies heavily on network security. A secure network infrastructure is essential to prevent disruption and protect against cyberattacks that can lead to significant downtime. Exploring network security measures, such as creating a dedicated WiFi network for robotic systems can help prevent disruption to existing infrastructure and reduce risk. This ensures that automated processes run smoothly and efficiently. Recently, the use of blockchain has increased the potential for cyber security by helping to detect and prevent threats faster and more accurately than ever before. Regular security audits can help identify vulnerabilities before they are exposed and exploited. This may include authorized penetration testing with simulated attacks to assess the security of the system, or regular evaluation of practices and procedures to ensure they align with best practice.

To update technology trends and innovations in the logistics industry, stay tuned to our future blogs and mark your calendar for TILOG-LOGISTIX 2025 scheduled on 20-22 August 2025 at BITEC, Bangkok.

Sources

• https://www.esentire.com/cybersecurity-fundamentals-defined/glossary/cybersecurity-ventures-report-on-cybercrime#:~:text=The%202023%20Cybersecurity%20Ventures%20Cybercrime%20Report%20predicts%20a%20rapid%20increase,%243%20trillion%20recorded%20in%202015.
• https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2024-03-18-gartner-unveils-top-eight-cybersecurity-predictions-for-2024#:~:text=Among%20the%20top%20predictions%2C%20generative,personal%20legal%20exposure%3B%20and%20battling
• https://logisticsviewpoints.com/2024/03/14/cybersecurity-the-first-line-of-defense-for-your-warehouse/