Cybersecurity for connected manufacturing: how to start with Industry 4.0 securely in SMEs?

More and more companies are investing in operational technologies (OT), connectivity and cloud-based data solutions to improve their manufacturing processes. This trend towards an industrial Internet of Things creates many opportunities, but also increases the risks and the importance of cybersecurity. Just one attack can have a major impact, from system downtime to lasting reputational damage. Maintaining security requires continuous learning and agility.

To help manufacturing companies tackle this problem, Sirris and Howest are organising a series of practical webinars focused on to the most relevant topics for cybersecurity in manufacturing.

The series of webinars consists of nine online sessions, held every Wednesday, starting on 11 October. Q&A interactive discussions with presenting companies from the industry will provide a unique tailor-made experience.

Nine online sessions

11 October 2023 (12h-12h45) - Vulnerabilities of IoT protocols and how to hack them (Howest) 

In today's digital age, the widespread adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has brought convenience and connectivity to our lives, but it has also introduced a myriad of security challenges. Join us as we delve into the world of IoT protocols, uncovering their vulnerabilities, and exploring the techniques hackers employ to exploit them.

25 October 2023 (12h-12h45) -  Hacking the flat network (Howest)

In today's digital landscape, flat networks are prevalent and vulnerable to security breaches, making it imperative to understand the tactics and strategies hackers employ to exploit them. 
Join us as we delve into the intricacies of network security and learn how to defend against potential threats in this informative session.

8 November 2023 (12h-12h45) - Intrusion detection tools and how to use them (Howest)

Safeguarding your network and data is paramount, making intrusion detection tools a critical component of your cybersecurity arsenal. 
Join us as we delve into the world of intrusion detection, exploring different tools, techniques, and best practices to enhance your organization's security posture.

15 November 2023 (12h-12h45) - Honeypots  – Low-cost detection system (Sirris)

Are you concerned about safeguarding your digital infrastructure? Join our webinar, in which we delve into the fascinating world of honeypots, your low-cost ally in cybersecurity intrusion detection.

22 November 2023 (12h-12h45) - Good practices for remote connectivity and support (Sirris)

In today's connected world, providing effective remote support is a game-changer. Join us for an insightful webinar In which we will explore the cybersecurity related concerns of remote connection and support. We will also cover some good practices you could use to manage your remote connection sessions more securely.

29 November 2023 (12h-12h45) - Hacking  PLCs and how to prevent it (Howest)

Industrial control systems are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats, and PLCs (programmable logic controllers) are a prime target. In this online session, we will explore the tactics hackers use to compromise PLCs and discuss effective strategies and best practices to safeguard your critical infrastructure from these attacks.

6 December 2023 (12h-12h45) - Access control in manufacturing (Sirris)

Secure access control to data and field devices/machines is pivotal for safeguarding the data, as well as devices/machines in operation. It is even more important for legacy machines, where which advanced security tools cannot be installed. In this session, we will explore different access control techniques and guidelines for protecting data, devices/machines, and infrastructure from unauthorized access. 

13 December (12h-12h45) - NIS2 compliance for manufacturing companies (Sirris)

NIS2 obligations become inevitable for manufacturing companies as all of them fall under important entities. How to tighten the belts and be able to gain the trust of your customers? Are you in on the roadmap to implement the NIS2 directive? Join the webinar to get valuable advice and an overview of steps towards NIS2 compliance.

20 December 2023 (12h-12h45) -  Demonstrator of CS in Industry4.0 (Howest, Sirris)

Are you ready to embark on a journey into the cutting-edge realm of Industry 4.0 cybersecurity? Join us for an eye-opening session where we'll showcase a live demonstrator, revealing possible hacks in a modern shop floor and sharing invaluable tips on how to fortify your defences.
Get ready to gain valuable insights into the future of manufacturing and technology integration.

For whom?

The course is aimed at the approximately 3,000 manufacturing SMEs, vendors and machine builders in all sectors in Belgium. We will focus on CEOs, OT engineers, IT admins, Head of Engineering. 

The webinars are part of CORNET COOCK Cybersecurity 4.0 project, financed by VLAIO.