How Epicor ERP Protects Your Business from Supply Chain Attacks
A supply chain is a manufacturer’s and distributor’s most prized possession. It is the glue that holds all operations together. Order processing, production management, inventory management, warehousing, packaging, delivery, and much more are all functionalities of a supply chain.
Epicor ERP provides security from cyberthreats and ensures supply chains are protected from malware attacks.
Now, imagine if someone came along and targeted that core infrastructure. The financial loss would only be one part of a complex disaster. Customer data, advanced machinery, and valuable designs are all potential victims.
What Are Supply Chain Attacks?
Supply chain attacks occur when cybercriminals target the systems, software, or partners that businesses rely on to operate. Instead of attacking one company directly, attackers exploit trusted connections between suppliers, vendors, and customers to gain access to sensitive data and critical systems.
Because modern supply chains are deeply interconnected, a single breach can quickly spread across multiple organizations. Manufacturers and distributors are especially vulnerable due to their reliance on third-party logistics providers, integrated ERP systems, APIs, EDI connections, and external software updates.
In many cases, companies don’t realize they’ve been compromised until the damage is already done. A trusted vendor, software update, or service provider becomes the entry point, allowing attackers to move laterally through the supply chain and impact operations, finances, and customer data.
A well-known example is the 2021 ransomware attack on Quanta Computer, a major technology manufacturer and Apple supplier. While Quanta was the initial target, the broader objective was to pressure Apple by threatening its supply chain.
This incident highlights how supply chain attacks are designed to create maximum disruption by exploiting dependency and trust between organizations.
For manufacturers and distributors, protecting the supply chain means protecting every connected system, partner, and data exchange. This is where secure, centralized ERP systems like Epicor ERP play a critical role in reducing exposure and improving visibility across the entire operation.
What Are Common Attacks on Supply Chains?
Open-Source Software
Open-source technology, while popular for its freely available programming and public source code, has become a target for cyberthreats.
The lack of cybersecurity means threat actors can easily target organizations via typosquatting, malicious code injection, and dependency confusion.
Undermining Code Signing
A method used to validate the authenticity and integrity codes; it is targeted by ransomware through altered code all while maintaining the integrity of the signature.
Without realizing it, a user at an organization could incorporate the malicious additions to the code through compromised certificate authority or acquiring the private keys of a developer.
Hijacked Updates
The amount of integrated software in a supply chain is huge. Just imagine the number of emails that are sent to notify users of upcoming software updates. Most recipients don’t think twice when it comes to clicking on those emails and links.
Certain spywares incorporate malicious code in these emails and links as it comes from a trusted sender.
Hardware Threats
Attacks on hardware and physical products are becoming less common due to the digitization of supply chains and software.
That being said, it is still possible for supply chains running on hardware to be compromised. In this instance, malware or altered components are exploited once the user deploys the physical system.
Phishing
Phishing has become so common that most organizations have programs in place to educate employees on identifying harmful emails.
CryptojackingCybercriminals have become so sophisticated that phishing emails look so legitimate it can be extremely tricky to know the difference. Not to mention, taking a further step by sending threats via WhatsApp, text, and phone calls impersonating a friend or family member.
Cryptojacking
According to a 2023 SonicWall Cyberthreat Report, cryptojacking increased 399% in the first half of 2023 in comparison to the previous year.
Cryptojacking is a type of malware script hijacked on devices that threat actors use to search for cryptocurrencies. It increases energy usage, drains computer resources, and infects systems without the user knowing.
How to Prevent Supply Chain Attacks
Did you know? The average loss associated with a cyberattack is $46,000 USD and can sometimes cost companies upwards of $1 million USD.
It makes sense that more and more businesses are investing in risk management and supply chain security to protect sensitive data and avoid major loss.
Here are a few security best practices to follow to mitigate supply chain risks:hines throughout their cycle by analyzing problems and adjusting to avoid breakdowns or failures. Sensors collect data and communicate with users to prepare for upcoming machine maintenance or potential issues.
Limit Risky Open-Source Softwares
While open-source software can be useful, relying on them without proper governance increases exposure. Critical systems should be supported by secure, well-maintained platforms.
Choose a Vendor-Based ERP Solution
A unified ERP system like Epicor ERP means core infrastructure under one roof and deployment options with secure databases that are constantly updated to ensure top protection.
Educate Employees
Human error is involved in the majority of security incidents. Regular training helps employees recognize phishing attempts, suspicious activity, and unsafe practices before damage occurs.
Incorporate Risk Management
Incorporate incident responses to address real-time supply chain threats. A process that documents attacks, is updated as threats evolve and regulations change, and provides strategic answers can be the difference between minimal disruption and massive loss.
Implement Strong Access Controls
Multi-factor authentication, role-based permissions, and strict user access policies limit the damage a compromised account can cause.
Invest in a Cloud ERP
Cloud ERP platforms provide advanced encryption, constant monitoring, automatic updates, and off-site backups. These features make it significantly harder for attackers to breach systems compared to legacy environments.
How Epicor ERP Strengthens Your Supply Chains Security
Epicor ERP is designed with security at its core. Whether deployed in the cloud, on-premises, or in a hybrid environment, Epicor provides robust protection for manufacturers and distributors.
With Epicor Kinetic for manufacturing and Epicor Prophet 21 for distribution, businesses benefit from:
- Secure, centralized data management
- Role-based access control and audit trails
- Regular system updates and security patches
- Encrypted data storage and transmission
- Controlled integrations with third-party systems
- Built-in monitoring and reporting for compliance
Epicor’s dedicated security and development teams continuously address emerging threats, ensuring the platform evolves alongside the cybersecurity landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions About Epicor ERP Supply Chain Security
Protect Your Supply Chain with Epicor ERP and EC Solutions
Cybersecurity is not just a technology issue. It’s a business strategy.
At EC Solutions, we have over 20 years of experience helping manufacturers and distributors secure their operations through Epicor ERP. From cloud migrations and secure integrations to user access controls and best practices, we help businesses build resilient, protected supply chains.
If you’re concerned about cybersecurity risks or want to strengthen your ERP security strategy, our team is ready to help.