Cloud and Email Security for your Supply Chain



Logistics companies are faced with numerous security challenges when it comes to communicating important information across the supply chain. Emails are commonly used to share information such as supply chain updates, cargo information and communication with authorities.

With notable cloud-based email services, reputable Cloud Service providers, as well as daily work communications through common work software and applications, they may mostly be perceived as secure for work operations.

From the article "One Phishing Email Took Down an entire Logistics Company - Dark Trace"[1] it can be seen how complex cyberthreats have evolved, and how quickly they can manifest within the systems not only locally, but affecting the whole supply chain.

These emails may be seen from reputable sources, disguised as authentic business information and can be quite convincing that may go unnoticed by employees. These emails transmissions are highly vulnerable to numerous cyber threats including phishing, malware, and ransomware attacks.

This can cause a loss of business in the entire supply chain, affecting operations, as well as data losses and reputational damage. There is a pressing need for logistics companies to have a comprehensive understanding of these cyberthreats as well, and to constantly review and improve processes while balancing with the efficiency of work operations.

Through notable data breaches[2] in the Logistics & Supply Chain industry, companies can also learn about the importance of developing a holistic mid to long-term Cybersecurity strategy throughout the organisation.

CSA shares an article, detailing the definitions and nature of Data Breaches[3], the common causes and how you can prevent them. Priorities can be made for the immediate weak links to prevent your organisation from being susceptible to these types of threats.

For a longer-term and more robust strategy, companies can implement structured security awareness training for employees across the supply chain, as there is clear evidence that this can significantly reduce vulnerabilities and mitigate risks of cyber threats.

Companies can also choose to work towards a Zero-Trust Framework “designing and implementing a security program based on the notion that no user or device or agent should have implicit trust.”[4]

This is where every device, user and data transfer is assumed to be a threat until verified otherwise. This model ensures that every aspect of the supply chain is accounted for and that no potential source of vulnerability goes unnoticed.

By adopting this approach, your email communications will be better secured against data breaches and cyberthreats. Seek suitable solutions that will provide better control, visibility, monitoring and detection of any potential hidden threats that may be lurking within your systems, so as to prevent cyberthreats all round.

You may constantly keep yourself abreast of the latest updates and information through pdpc.gov.sg[5] to also learn about the common causes of breaches, how organisations can learn from them to develop a more robust Cybersecurity strategy and the impact it has on companies.

[1] https://darktrace.com/blog/how-one-email-took-down-a-logistics-company
[2] https://www.pdpc.gov.sg/Search-Result?keyword=logistics

[3] https://www.csa.gov.sg/Tips-Resource/publications/cybersense/2022/data-breaches

[4] https://www.csoonline.com/article/3247848/what-is-zero-trust-a-model-for-more-effective-security.html

[5] https://www.pdpc.gov.sg/



**This article was contributed by our knowledge partner, Toffs Technologies, to provide industry insights. SLA does not endorse any products or services mentioned.

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