Strengthening Cybersecurity in Machine Tools in Industry 4.0

As Industry 4.0 accelerates digitalization and connectivity, machine tools have become increasingly exposed to cyber threats. Cybercriminals are targeting critical industries and infrastructure, causing disruptions with far-reaching consequences. In response, regulatory bodies worldwide, including in the U.S., have introduced stricter cybersecurity standards to mitigate these risks.
The aerospace and defense sectors, where precision and security are non-negotiable, face particularly high stakes. Compliance with the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) and its underlying NIST SP 800-171 requirements is essential for defense contractors safeguarding machine tools and protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), mandated by federal to defense contractors.
This session will explore how machine tool builders and users can implement effective cybersecurity strategies to meet DFARS standards. Key areas of focus include Access Control, System & Communications Protection, Incident Response, Audit and Accountability, and Physical Protection. Attendees will gain insights into emerging cybersecurity trends, critical regulatory updates, and practical best practices. Additionally, real-world examples will demonstrate how machine tools can achieve compliance and remain resilient against evolving cyber threats in the Industry 4.0 landscape.