Cybersecurity Consulting for Manufacturers
Protect Your Business and Achieve Compliance
As business becomes more reliant on connected devices and networks, securing your operations has never been more critical. Manufacturers face an ever-increasing range of cybersecurity threats that can disrupt operations and lead to costly data breaches, and compliance requirements to secure and maintain business opportunities will continue to be updated.
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The Growing Cybersecurity Threat Facing Manufacturers
Manufacturers are particularly vulnerable to cyber threats due to their interconnected systems and operational technology. A single breach can lead to costly downtime, stolen intellectual property, or a breach of sensitive data.
Key cybersecurity challenges facing manufacturers include:
- Protecting Operational Technology (OT) and IT Systems: OT systems, like those used in production and machinery, are often less protected than traditional IT systems, leaving manufacturers vulnerable to cyberattacks.
- Compliance with Cybersecurity Standards: Frameworks like NIST 800-171 and CMMC are critical to ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties.
- Managing Third-Party Risks: Manufacturers rely on vendors and partners, making third-party cybersecurity a key area for risk management.
- Preventing Data Breaches and Intellectual Property Theft: Protecting your proprietary information from theft or unauthorized access is crucial to maintaining competitive advantage.
Impact Washington helps manufacturers navigate these challenges by tailoring proven frameworks to their specific needs and context.
Where to Start:
1.
Start with NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)
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Who It's For: Any organization, especially those dealing with critical infrastructure. However, it's applicable to all sectors, including manufacturing.
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What It Is: A flexible, voluntary framework developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to help organizations manage and reduce cybersecurity risks. It includes five key functions: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover.
Why It Matters: It provides a structured, adaptable approach to identifying and addressing cybersecurity risks. Manufacturers can use it to assess their cybersecurity posture and build a cybersecurity program aligned with best practices.
How to Implement: Start by understanding the framework’s core functions and identifying the most critical areas of risk within your organization. Then, apply appropriate cybersecurity practices, policies, and technologies to manage those risks.
Learn More About NIST CSF.
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Determine if you need Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC)
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Who It's For: Any manufacturer working or planning to work with the Department of Defense (DoD) or federal contractors must comply with CMMC requirements.
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What It Is: A certification program designed by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to ensure that contractors meet specific cybersecurity practices. It includes levels of maturity ranging from Level 1 (basic cybersecurity practices) to Level 3 (advanced and optimized practices).
Why It Matters: CMMC certification is mandatory for DoD contractors, meaning manufacturers in defense supply chains need to meet these standards. It helps ensure that sensitive information is protected and that manufacturers are resilient against cyber threats.
How to Implement: Determine which CMMC level your organization needs based on the type of work you do with the DoD. Then, align your cybersecurity practices with the corresponding level's requirements. This may involved working with an accredited assessor to achieve certification.
Learn more about CMMC Certification.
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Review NIST 800-171 if you handle sensitive federal data (CUI) or are working with government contractors.
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Who It's For: Primarily federal contractors or organizations that work with the federal government and handle CUI.
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What It Is: A set of security requirements developed by NIST for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in non-federal systems and organizations. It provides guidelines for safeguarding sensitive information when it's shared with contractors or other external parties.
Why It Matters: If your manufacturing business is handling sensitive data or working with federal agencies, compliance with NIST 800-171 is crucial. It helps ensure that sensitive information is protected and that your business meets government standards for information security.
How to Implement: Begin by conducting a self-assessment to determine where your organization’s cybersecurity practices stand in relation to the NIST 800-171 requirements. Then, implement necessary changes to meet the standards. Documentation of compliance is required, and third-party assessments may be needed.
Learn more about NIST 800-171.
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How We Can Help
At Impact Washington, we specialize in helping manufacturers navigate the complex cybersecurity landscape. Whether you're aiming for NIST 800-171 compliance or preparing for CMMC certification, we offer personalized, cost-effective solutions to meet your unique needs. We provide:
- Cybersecurity assessment: Our team will assess your current cybersecurity situation and recommend the best course of action.
- Step-by-Step Guidance: From cybersecurity assessments to implementing compliance frameworks, we guide you every step of the way.
- Tailored Solutions: We work with you to develop a cybersecurity strategy that fits your business goals and resources.
View our Success Stories and see how we've helped businesses like yours achieve cybersecurity compliance. Get started with a consultation!
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Impact Washington: Your Trusted Partner For Cybersecurity Compliance
Impact Washington is committed to helping manufacturers achieve cybersecurity resilience and compliance. We stand out for our:
- Expertise in Manufacturing: We understand the unique challenges and needs of the manufacturing industry, and we tailor our solutions accordingly.
- Proven Track Record: Our team has successfully helped numerous manufacturers improve their cybersecurity posture and achieve compliance with NIST and CMMC standards.
- Local Support: As a local resource, we offer personalized support and hands-on guidance tailored to the specific needs of manufacturers in Washington State.
We'll walk you through the necessary steps, assess your current cybersecurity posture, and help you align with the compliance standards that matter most to your business.