Hidden Cybersecurity Threats in Your Supply Chain Could Be Putting Your Manufacturing Operation at Risk

Are there active cybersecurity threats lurking in your facility right now? You might be astonished at what’s slipping through the cracks.

In modern manufacturing, connectivity is everywhere. Machines talk to each other, inventory systems update in real time, and supply vending machines automatically restock to ensure critical supplies are always available. While these innovations streamline operations, they can also create unseen vulnerabilities for hackers to exploit. The smallest, most inconspicuous connected devices can serve as a gateway for cyber threats—often in unexpected ways.

At Lampin, we’re passionate about cybersecurity, but recently discovered that even we had some overlooked vulnerabilities. Learn how we identified (and resolved) the risks that were hiding in plain sight, and how we stay on top of new technologies and the threats they may introduce to the workplace to keep our customers safe.

The Hidden Risk: A Simple Vending Machine

Imagine a supply vending machine in your facility. Employees use it to access gloves, cutting tools, or safety glasses. The machine uses the organization’s ethernet network to connect to the supplier, automatically reordering stock as supplies run low. It’s a convenient system that ensures materials are always available, but this simple process can introduce a major risk.

The Lampin team experienced this firsthand when a walk-through audit revealed a vulnerability in our own facility. While we had robust cybersecurity measures in place for primary systems, a routine check uncovered an exposed entry point through a seemingly harmless supply vending machine. Because it was connected via Ethernet, the machine had direct access to critical infrastructure, allowing it to automatically reorder supplies without manual intervention—but also introducing a security risk. We immediately took action, isolating it onto a separate VLAN to mitigate the threat and strengthen our overall security protocols. This proactive approach sets us apart from competitors who may not even be aware of these hidden risks.

Here’s how:

• Weak Network Security – If the vending machine connects to the same network as critical production systems, a cybercriminal could use it as an entry point to move laterally through your infrastructure. Hackers could exploit the vending machine’s connection to access sensitive company data or disrupt operations.
• Unpatched Firmware – Many IoT devices, including vending machines, do not receive regular security updates. This leaves them vulnerable to exploitation, particularly if their firmware has known vulnerabilities and your unit(s) have not been updated regularly.
• Default Credentials – If factory-set usernames and passwords aren’t changed, hackers can easily gain control of the device. Often, default passwords for IoT devices are available online, making it easy for cybercriminals to exploit them.
• Data Interception – Wireless connections can be intercepted, potentially exposing sensitive data about inventory levels and purchasing patterns. Attackers could use this information to disrupt supply chains or plan further attacks based on inventory use patterns.

A compromised vending machine may seem minor, but it could be an initial breach point. Cybercriminals could use this access to infiltrate operational technology (OT) networks, manipulate production systems, or install ransomware. Even if the vending machine only transmits inventory data, an attacker could leverage this information to plan supply chain disruptions or identify vulnerabilities in purchasing patterns.

A Multiplying Threat: More Overlooked Connected Devices

While a vending machine might be an obvious example, many other network-connected devices within a manufacturing facility also present cybersecurity risks. These include:

• Smart HVAC Systems—Many modern climate control systems connect to the network for remote monitoring and optimization. Hackers could exploit vulnerabilities to access internal systems or disrupt operations by manipulating facility temperatures if improperly secured. In extreme cases, temperature changes could affect material properties, machine function, or production lines.
• Industrial IoT Sensors, PLCs, and Machinery—This category includes industrial sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), milling machines, and other automated machining technology that connect to a network to monitor, optimize, or automate production. If improperly secured, these devices can provide a direct entry point for cybercriminals looking to disrupt operations or steal sensitive data.
• Printers and Scanners – Often overlooked, network-connected printers store sensitive documents and may provide an entry point for cybercriminals if not properly secured. If a hacker gains access to a printer’s network, they may be able to retrieve confidential production or business data.
• Security Cameras – Internet-connected surveillance systems designed to enhance security can themselves become targets if their software is outdated or if default passwords remain unchanged. If compromised, security cameras could be used to spy on facility operations or disable security monitoring.
• Employee Mobile Devices – Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies, where employees use personal smartphones or tablets to access work applications, can introduce unverified endpoints that may be vulnerable to malware or phishing attacks. If an employee’s device is compromised, attackers could gain access to the company’s internal systems.

Strengthening Cybersecurity in Manufacturing

At Lampin Corporation, we recognize that even the smallest connected device can present a cybersecurity risk. We have been proactive in implementing best-in-class cybersecurity practices. Our ability to identify and quickly remediate hidden vulnerabilities is what makes us a safer vendor for customers near and far.

How to Protect Your Facility

To mitigate these risks, manufacturers must take proactive cybersecurity measures:

• Network Segmentation – Isolate IoT devices like vending machines, HVAC systems, and security cameras from critical manufacturing systems. This prevents a breach in one area from spreading to essential operational systems.
• Regular Updates & Patch Management – Ensure all connected devices receive firmware updates to fix security vulnerabilities. Outdated systems are often the most vulnerable to attacks.
• Secure Authentication – Change default credentials and use strong, unique passwords. Implement multi-factor authentication where possible.
• Monitor Network Traffic – Implement security monitoring tools to detect unusual activity. Early detection of unauthorized access can prevent significant damage.
• Zero Trust Approach – Treat every device as a potential risk, requiring strict verification before allowing access. Establish security policies that limit device access to only necessary functions.

The Bigger Picture: Are You Doing Enough?

If something as simple as a vending machine or a security camera can slip through the cracks, are you certain there aren’t hidden vulnerabilities in your facility? At Lampin we take cybersecurity seriously because we know that one overlooked device can lead to a major breach. As the industry adopts increasingly complex automation and IoT, manufacturers must prioritize cybersecurity at every level of operations.

We’re setting the example with regular security checks and strong cybersecurity partnerships— and if leading experts in manufacturing cybersecurity are scrutinizing their own processes, you should be, too. Protect your facility, safeguard your data, and ensure your operations remain resilient against evolving cyber threats.