Manufacturing Hit Hard by Ransomware as Security Gaps and Skills Shortages Leave Sector Vulnerable

Manufacturers face rising ransomware threats; skills shortages and unknown security gaps increase vulnerability.

Dec 9, 2025

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Manufacturing companies are struggling against a rising ransomware threat, with a new Sophos report revealing alarming vulnerabilities across the sector. Based on 332 IT leaders' experiences, the study found exploited vulnerabilities caused 32% of attacks, while malicious emails accounted for 23%.

A critical skills shortage emerged as the top factor, with 42.5% of victims citing lack of expertise as a key vulnerability. Unknown security gaps and inadequate protection followed closely at 41.6% and 41% respectively.

The human toll is severe. Nearly half of IT teams reported increased anxiety about future attacks, while 27% saw leadership replaced after breaches. One in five teams experienced staff absenteeism due to stress.

There's hope: only 40% of attacks now result in data encryption, down from 74% in 2024, suggesting improved defenses are working.

Source: Industrial Cyber

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