Are more manufacturers starting to take cyber security seriously?

Over the past 12 months, a growing number of manufacturers across South Wales and the wider UK have started treating cyber security as a core operational risk — not just an IT issue. With high-profile attacks hitting supply chains, production lines and even safety-critical systems – the shift in mindset is long overdue.
 

Why manufacturers are a growing target

Manufacturers are attractive to cybercriminals for several reasons:
 

• Legacy systems: Many plants still run older OT (Operational Technology) that isn’t easily patched or monitored.
• IP-rich environments: Design files, R&D data, and proprietary processes are high-value targets.
• High downtime cost: Cyberattacks that halt production can quickly lead to ransom payments or major financial loss.
• Supply chain links: Hackers often use smaller suppliers as a gateway into larger networks.

 
In 2024 alone, over 60% of UK manufacturers reported at least one attempted cyber attack, according to Make UK. And it’s not just large multinationals — SMEs are increasingly targeted, often due to lower security budgets or unclear ownership of digital risk.
 

Signs that attitudes are changing

We’re now seeing more manufacturers:
 

• Budgeting for cyber risk as part of overall business continuity planning
• Hiring or upskilling cyber-aware engineers and systems managers
• Running cyber security audits alongside ISO and H&S checks
• Bringing IT and OT teams together to secure both sides of the tech stack

 
There’s also increased demand for Cyber Essentials certification, especially for manufacturers working with defence, aerospace, or NHS-linked clients.
 

What does this mean for engineering teams?

Cyber security isn’t just a job for the IT team anymore. It’s increasingly relevant for:
 

• Controls engineers who configure PLCs and SCADA systems
• R&D teams handling sensitive IP
• Production managers using cloud-connected machinery or analytics platforms
• Operations directors responsible for uptime and compliance

 
The skills gap is real — and growing. Finding technical staff who understand both engineering and digital risk is becoming a competitive advantage.
 

Where IntaPeople van help

At IntaPeople, we work closely with advanced manufacturers across South Wales to find the technical talent needed to support more secure, future-ready operations.
 
Whether you need:
 

• Automation engineers with cyber awareness
• Infrastructure support for secure manufacturing networks
• Compliance-led technical staff to help with Cyber Essentials or ISO 27001
• Or simply engineers who understand the digital risks in modern production environments

 
We can help you build resilient teams that protect your systems, data, and reputation.