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Protecting Intellectual Property at the Factory Level

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Protecting Intellectual Property at the Factory Level

The manufacturing industry has been greatly impacted by the rise of digital technologies. As production processes become increasingly digitized and connected, the importance of cybersecurity in the manufacturing sector has become increasingly evident.  

The main concern in the industry today is protecting intellectual property (IP) from theft and compromise. Intellectual property can encompass proprietary processes, product designs, trade secrets, and other sensitive information that gives a business a competitive edge. IP is crucial for a company’s competitive advantage, and the loss of it can result in significant financial and reputational damage. 

Cybersecurity is an important aspect of IP protection, particularly in the manufacturing industry, where operational technology (OT) systems are widely used to control and monitor industrial processes. The integration of IT and OT systems has created new opportunities for cyber criminals to access and exploit critical systems. As a result, manufacturing companies must prioritize their cybersecurity measures to protect their intellectual property and ensure the safe operation of their systems. 

In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of protecting intellectual property in the manufacturing industry, and why cybersecurity is crucial for IP protection. 

The Importance of Protecting Intellectual Property in Manufacturing

Intellectual property is an essential component of a company’s competitive advantage. This includes trademarks, patents, copyrights, trade secrets, and proprietary technology. In the manufacturing industry, this can range from product designs, formulas, and processes to customer data and sensitive business information. Companies spend a significant amount of time, money, and effort to develop their IP, and its theft or compromise can result in a significant loss of revenue and damage to their reputation. 

For manufacturers, IP theft can occur in many ways, such as through cyberattacks, data breaches, or physical theft of proprietary information. Cyberattacks, in particular, have become a growing threat due to the increasing use of connected devices and the internet in the manufacturing process. Hackers can target manufacturing companies to steal sensitive information and trade secrets or disrupt their operations. In some cases, IP theft can result in the loss of valuable research and development, the duplication of products, or even the release of harmful products into the market. 

Discover Difenda’s top 3 tips for cybersecurity in the manufacturing industry here.

Threats to Intellectual Property in Manufacturing

There are two major threats to IP in manufacturing.

Industrial espionage happens when competitors, organized crime groups, and foreign governments try to steal sensitive information to gain a competitive advantage. This can include reverse engineering products, stealing product designs, and obtaining access to trade secrets.

But, one of the most common threats to IP is cybercrime, such as hacking, malware attacks, and phishing scams. which can cause additional losses including production downtime, which can have significant financial implications for a business. 

Why Cybersecurity is Crucial for IP Protection 

Cybersecurity is crucial for IP protection in the manufacturing industry for several reasons. First, many OT systems used in the industry are connected to the internet, making them vulnerable to cyber attacks. Second, these systems often control critical processes and store sensitive information, making them a high-value target for cybercriminals. 

In addition to these risks, manufacturers must also comply with regulations, such as the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), which require organizations to protect sensitive information. 

Strategies for Protecting Intellectual Property

There are several strategies that manufacturers can use to protect their intellectual property. One of the most effective is to implement a comprehensive cybersecurity program that includes both IT and OT security measures. 

  • IT Security Measures such as Difenda MXDR are designed to protect the computer systems and networks used by an organization. These measures can include firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems. 
  • OT Security Measures such as Difenda MXDR for OT are designed to protect the OT systems used in the manufacturing industry. These measures can include network segmentation, access controls, and industrial control system (ICS) security software. 

Another important strategy for IP protection is to educate employees about the importance of cybersecurity and the risks associated with cybercrime. This can include regular training sessions, as well as implementing policies and procedures that emphasize the importance of protecting sensitive information. 

The Role of Managed Detection and Response for IP Protection 

Managed Extended Detection and Response (MXDR) is an important tool for protecting Intellectual Property (IP). MXDR provides real-time monitoring and analysis of a company’s network and systems to identify and respond to security threats in a timely manner. This allows companies to detect and respond to potential IP breaches before they result in significant harm. 

MXDR services can also provide in-depth security analysis and reporting to help companies understand their security posture and identify areas for improvement. This information can be used to develop a comprehensive security strategy for IP protection, including the implementation of appropriate technical measures, employee education and training, and incident response procedures. 

Learn more about MXDR for Operational Technology service components in the service brief here.

One of the key benefits of MXDR for IP protection is that it provides 24/7 monitoring of a manufacturer’s IT and OT systems to help companies quickly resolve security incidents and minimize the impact of any breach. This support can include incident response planning and coordination, forensic analysis, and reporting to regulatory agencies as required. This allows the MXDR service to detect and respond to cyber threats quickly, before they can cause significant harm.  

In the manufacturing industry, where sensitive information and IP are critical assets, MXDR services can help maintain the confidentiality and integrity of their data, while ensuring that they are prepared to respond to any security incidents that may occur. By partnering with a reliable MXDR provider, companies can be confident that their IP is protected and secure, even in the face of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. 

See how this company was able to successfully integrate its IT and OT security solutions with Difenda in our latest customer win!

The Importance of a Strong Cybersecurity Culture 

In addition to implementing cybersecurity measures, it is equally important for manufacturing companies to cultivate a strong cybersecurity culture. This means promoting awareness and education among employees on the importance of cybersecurity, and ensuring that all employees are trained on best practices to protect sensitive information. 

Creating a culture of cybersecurity also involves regularly reviewing and updating the company’s security policies and procedures. It is important to assess the effectiveness of these measures regularly and make necessary changes to keep up with the constantly evolving cyber threat landscape. 

Best Practices for Ensuring IP Security 

  1. Physical security: Physical security measures, such as secure access controls, surveillance cameras, and visitor logging, are important to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive areas and systems that contain IP. 
  1. Data classification and access control: Implement strict data classification and access control policies to restrict access to IP to authorized personnel only. This can include setting up data encryption, firewalls, and other data protection tools to safeguard sensitive information. 
  1. Third-party vendor management: Manage third-party vendor relationships carefully and ensure that they understand and abide by the company’s IP protection policies. This includes having comprehensive contracts in place that define what IP the vendor can access and how it can be used. 
  1. Incident response planning: Develop a comprehensive incident response plan to quickly and effectively respond to potential IP breaches. This plan should include procedures for detecting, reporting, and investigating potential breaches, as well as steps to restore systems and data after an incident. 
  1. Regular security assessments: Regularly assess the factory’s IP protection processes and technologies to identify areas for improvement and make changes as needed. This can help ensure that the IP protection program stays up-to-date and effective in the face of changing security threats. 

Discover how a detailed OT assessment can help identify and solve gaps in your network with the sample OT Environment Assessment Report.

Protecting IP in manufacturing is essential for companies to maintain their competitive advantage and prevent financial losses. By taking a comprehensive and proactive approach to IP protection, manufacturers can minimize the risk of IP theft and ensure the continued success of their operations. 

Don’t let funding prevent you from protecting your Intellectual Property. Download our Funding and Incentives Guide to understand your options!

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Megan Miller

Megan Miller’s energy and passion for learning flow into all aspects of her work. As the Growth Manager, North America, she brings a background in sciences which she has transitioned to the tech sector in her role at Difenda.

With a Bachelors of Science in Geology, Megan is a lifelong learner who is voracious about learning anything she can get her hands on about cybersecurity. Her positive energy has built a sales strategy with a focus on expanding in the United States while nurturing the Canadian presence. She is responsible for recruiting and training the sales team. Together with the company’s leadership, she creates the sales process and the company’s product strategy in order to better serve the customer base. This ensures that our customers have a highly trained and highly motivated team to help them every step of the way, Megan has completed Microsoft SC-900 training and working towards mastering Microsoft.

Whether at work or play, Megan is fully committed. She took her love of hockey all the way to the semi-professional level as a competitive hockey player. Megan loves all things sports including water skiing, scuba diving, cycling, and snowboarding. She also enjoys time with family and reading about alternative energy, innovation, and cybersecurity.

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Natasha Phanor

As the Microsoft Partner Manager at Difenda, Natasha Phanor is responsible for driving growth within our Microsoft Partnership. With six years in the industry, she offers a fresh, energetic approach, and the ability to focus on our customer’s needs throughout the entire process. Natasha has the innate ability to foresee customer needs and solve problems before they arise, which creates a smooth road for each customer she encounters.

As the recipient of the Outstanding Services Partner of the Year Award in 2018, it is clear that Natasha responds quickly to customer needs, creates a platform for understanding a customer’s business requirements, and walks them through the process to ensure their complete satisfaction.

In her spare time, Natasha is as energetic and passionate as she is on the job. A self-proclaimed foodie-extraordinaire, she enjoys dinner parties, traveling, downhill skiing, hiking, biking, and reading. Natasha has a Bachelor of Fine Arts, specializing in Dance, from Ryerson University.

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Ian Miersch

Ian Miersch has energy to spare, and uses his eclectic background to make a positive mark on the cybersecurity industry. As Vice President of Finance & Human Resources, Ian Miersch is responsible for overseeing scalable business growth as Difenda expands throughout North America. But it is the way he does it that sets him apart. By leveraging his engineering background and critical thinking skills, he has been able to develop unique strategies that balance the company’s current business needs with its long-term growth plans. And the results of his unique background and drive mean that the company is growing in a fiscally responsible manner, all with the customer’s needs at the forefront.

With a Bachelor’s of Mechanical Engineering, coupled with an MBA in Finance, both from McMaster University, Ian’s ability to analyze data and make informed decisions is augmented by his ability to understand all facets of the business. He has a holistic understanding of the craft, from operations to project delivery and management, to his niche in financial planning. Ian’s ten years of experience in the industry mean that he has seen it all, and knows how to create a dynamic team and manage the resources needed for success.

Outside of work, he uses his energy to help others through the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Program, earning the Group Recreation Volunteer of the Year Status.

Ian also enjoys exploring and hiking with his three young children, exercising (so he can keep up with them), and reading professional development books. He is an avid but generally heartbroken fan of the Toronto sports teams, including the Blue Jays, Maple Leafs, and Raptors.

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Derek Nugent

Derek Nugent, Vice President, Revenue lives by the motto “Be early, be better.” Derek leads our Revenue team and is responsible for the customer’s journey with Difenda. His high energy level and creativity have built high performing teams, whether at the Herjavec Group, CDW, or in his current leadership role at Difenda.

After earning a Bachelor Administration and Management degree from the Academy of Learning, Derek started in the information technology industry in 2004 and transitioned to the cybersecurity industry in 2014. With so much experience in a wide-variety of roles, he is poised to take the team at Difenda to the next level.

He excels at leading revenue strategies, new market entry, partnership engagement, and customer acquisition and retention. His work ethic and interest in rising to the top motivate his sales teams, who respond well to his passion and zeal. Under his tutelage, they are able to achieve attractive lead generation, YOY growth, and sizable deals. Derek works tirelessly to build a better team, and his constituents follow his road to success, which ultimately leads to a rewarding experience for the customer.

Even when volunteering, Derek is all in. He was a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters from 2005-2015, earning Group Recreation Volunteer of the Year Status.

And when he isn’t busy leading the team to the acme of sales, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two kids, running, working out, watching thrillers, action and dramatic television shows

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Manoj Arora

Manoj Arora, Difenda’s Founder and CEO has always been ahead of the curve in Technology and Cyber Security. After securing his engineering degree in Computer Science, he wrote his first mobile banking application when he was just 23 years old. This accomplishment certainly set him apart from the crowd and prepared him for a lifetime of innovation and success in his field. At just 25 years old, he was selected as the youngest Cyber Security Officer for one of the largest banks in Asia.

As a globetrotting young cyber security professional, Manoj was instrumental in designing cyber security infrastructure and controls for some of the largest institutions around the world. Depth of his expertise and passion to serve customers at the highest level of competence and integrity lead to Difenda. Founded in 2008, Difenda is a rapidly growing cybersecurity firm operating in North America and Asia.

As the CEO at Difenda, Manoj drives the strategic vision to protect our customers and enable our team members to deliver our services in line with core values- competence, integrity, and innovation. Currently one of Microsoft’s leading North American partners, Difenda reflects Manoj’ single-minded focus on our customers. Difenda is fully vested in success of its customers and takes pride in considering our success as a byproduct of our customers. Manoj has always been committed to building a great team and forging strong partnerships to serve our customers with standards that top our industry.

When he is not busy bringing cybersecurity to the world, Manoj enjoys playing golf and squash, and continues to travel the world.

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Lisa Templeton

Lisa Templeton is the perfect combination of human empathy and technological prowess. In her role as People Services Manager, she takes care of our team members to support them in their daily work, as well as on their personal life paths. Happy employees make for happy customers, and Lisa excels in giving our employees the tools they need for success in order to become the best possible versions of themselves. Along with employee formation, she shines in the service delivery support domain to continuously improve the process. Her 24 years of experience in IT Operations and Service Management help her create quality and efficiency at Difenda.

Having attended the Information Systems Management certificate program at Ryerson University, and with various other certifications to her credit, Lisa is perceptive and innovative when it comes to information technology, but also sensitive to the needs of her human constituents. Responsible for achieving the first privately owned company HDI Support Center certification in Canada, she has also designed and implemented Service Management excellence programs and 24×7 IT Operations departments for multiple IT organizations, and has created corporate rewards and recognition programs to keep her employees engaged and motivated.

On the personal side, Lisa passionately supports the cause of breast cancer research, having lost her mother to the disease. She reads voraciously in her spare time, and enjoys the art of home renovation. The summer months also bring time on her boat and exploring new hiking trails.

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Miranda McCurdy

Miranda McCurdy uses her myriad super powers in all aspects of her job and personal life. As the Marketing Director at Difenda, Miranda McCurdy brings over a decade of experience to the table, which includes expertise in all facets of operations, brand management, and content marketing, as well as a multitude of successful strategies for the ever-expanding digital world. She is an expert at simplifying the message the company is trying to send, filling in gaps in the information, and strengthening the content in order to create compelling narratives that strengthen the brand and developing programs that bring teams together.

With several Addy Awards issued by the American Advertising Federation Cleveland to her credit, and her never say die attitude, Miranda understands both the broader picture and the minute details that are needed to successfully market a product. With her abilities to harness both the talent needed to spread the message, as well as to create the message itself, she is an integral cog in the company’s ability to communicate with customers and other stakeholders.

When she is not building a brand, she shares her ability to fill the gaps in her community by volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, the Special Olympics, and the Charleston Food Bank. In her spare time, Miranda spends time with her family, enjoys fitness and health, paddle boarding, reading, and arts and crafts.

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Juliana Zaremba

Connections are the name of the game for Juliana Zaremba. As Strategic Partnerships Director, she is responsible for Difenda’s channel partnerships and the development and ownership of the channel partner program. She is also responsible for the global Microsoft Partnership, including the creation of strategic plans with MSFT contacts that will facilitate the continued growth of the business and establish certification and training protocols in all security technologies. Her role is multifaceted, as she acquires partners, manages relationships with them, and develops strategies that will provide cutting edge security solutions to our customer base. Another integral aspect of her job is to facilitate growth.

With a Bachelor’s in Math from the University of Waterloo and 14 years of experience from her previous roles at Herjavec Group and CDW, her cutting edge focus and ability to develop long-lasting relationships and strategies provides world class security solutions to our customer base.

Juliana thrives on connections outside of work as well. She is a philanthropist and contributor with Women4Change based in Hamilton. This group of local women is passionate about supporting local causes, and she focuses her efforts around Women in STEM. She is also a member of Club Italia in Niagara Falls and supports their youth events throughout the year.

When not managing the Microsoft Global partnership, Juliana enjoys reading, often reading several books at once. Juliana enjoys exploring the Niagara Escarpment with her family, as well as sharing meals and experiences with her extended family. Juliana’s competitive nature has her always trying new things, like Whoop band challenges and Peloton.

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Jeffry Jacob

Biography Coming Soon

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