SCSEC06-BP01 Implement network segmentation and isolation to reduce risks across supply chain phases
Network segmentation creates security boundaries between different stages of your supply chain, limiting the potential impact of security breaches. By implementing logical separation between procurement, manufacturing, distribution, and other supply chain functions, organizations can help prevent lateral movement of threats and apply specific security controls appropriate to each segment. This approach enables more granular access control, improved monitoring, and enhanced protection of sensitive assets across the supply chain environment. Effective segmentation should be based on business functions, data sensitivity, and regulatory requirements.
Desired outcome: Segmented and secure supply chain stages with appropriate access controls and monitoring.
Benefits of establishing this best practice: Reduced risk of cross-stage contamination and improved overall supply chain security.
Level of risk exposed if this best practice is not established: High
Implementation guidance
Isolate procurement systems within dedicated network segments and implement least privilege access controls for procurement staff, while making sure all sensitive procurement data is encrypted both at rest and in transit. Isolate manufacturing systems into separate network zones with stringent access control lists, and establish secure private connectivity channels between manufacturing processes and supply chain partners.
Implementation steps
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Isolate procurement systems within dedicated network segments and implement least privilege access controls for procurement staff, while making sure all sensitive procurement data is encrypted both at rest and in transit.
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Separate manufacturing systems into separate network zones with stringent access control lists, and establish secure private connectivity channels between manufacturing processes and supply chain partners.
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Deploy web application protection to shield distribution applications from common web-based exploits and vulnerabilities.
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Implement comprehensive monitoring and threat detection across all distribution systems to identify unauthorized access attempts and behavioral anomalies.
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Establish consistent security tagging and classification schemes across all supply chain stages to enable automated security policy enforcement and compliance verification.
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Regularly conduct security assessments and penetration testing for each supply chain stage to identify and remediate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.