A managerial review and guidelines for Industry 4.0 factories on cybersecurity

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) has created a rebellion in traditional factories by introducing the Internet of Things (IoT) and Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS). This revolution has caused increased automation and customized production, which has occurred through a synergy between customer demands, stocks, and supply chains. This synergy has also exposed factories to potential cyber-attack threats. Although there is extensive literature available on the topic of cyber security, however, business owners still assume cyber security as business preservation. This study sheds light on a step-by-step cyber security aspect of manufacturing factories with Industry 4.0. The study presented possible vulnerabilities and threats to the networks and devices used in a factory by dividing them into various common parameters. We reviewed the proposed literature and provided solutions to Industry 4.0 factories regarding cybersecurity challenges. The reviewed articles are divided into four segments, starting from the purpose of the proposal, the adopted methodology, the proposed cyber security solution, and finally the author’s evaluation. The study reports on a state-of-the-art cyber security solution for Industry 4.0 factories. The characterization of cybersecurity is also proposed concerning management aspects, by showing that every level of organization has its role. The study also highlighted that cybersecurity could play a crucial role in the creation of value for businesses. It is suggested that despite adding an expert system paradigm for cyber security solutions, factories should also adopt new innovative ways, such as machine learning, digital twins, and honeypots. This review highlights that cyber security is not only a technical concern, but it also needs support from multiple actors of the organization to add it to the comprehensive strategy of an Industry 4.0 factory, and every user must be trained and aware of the cybersecurity risks.