Industrial robots connected to networks can be infected with ransomware. Malware may stop production, alter operations, or demand ransom to restore functionality. Attackers exploit poor segmentation and outdated protocols. Impact is both financial and operational. Recovery requires technical expertise and downtime. It demonstrates the evolution of ransomware from data-only to operational disruption.
It matters because manufacturing continuity and safety are threatened. Industrial cybersecurity is critical.
It also forces a convergence of IT and OT security practices.
Ransomware can hijack industrial robots to stop production.
[ICS-CERT, us-cert.cisa.gov]