Cybersecurity in Smart Factories

Key Takeaways from Automation World Vietnam 2025

What an inspiring few days it has been at Automation World Vietnam 2025. From thought-provoking keynotes to hands-on conversations at the Evvo Labs booth, one thing was clear: cybersecurity is no longer a side conversation; it’s at the heart of smart manufacturing.

At the Vietnam Manufacturing Innovation Summit, our COO Vince Chew delivered impactful sessions on “Cybersecurity’s Strategic Impacts on Smart Factories” and “Workforce in the Automation Industry.” The energy in the room, the insightful questions, and the willingness of manufacturers to share challenges all pointed to one truth: leaders are ready to take cybersecurity seriously.

Why Cybersecurity Is a Business Imperative

For years, cybersecurity was seen as just an IT issue, hidden behind firewalls and passwords. Today, it has moved into the boardroom, standing shoulder to shoulder with productivity, quality, and safety.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Attacks are rising: Manufacturing saw 71% more cyberattacks in 2024, with 3 out of 10 ransomware incidents targeting this sector.

  • Downtime is costly: Cyber incidents can cost up to $260,000 per hour in downtime.

  • Digital adoption = new risks: AI, IoT, and cloud adoption mean every robot, sensor, and controller is now a potential entry point.

  • Leaders are waking up: 1 in 3 manufacturers already view IT/OT security as critical to achieving business outcomes within five years.

The message is clear: Cybersecurity is no longer just about protection; it’s the backbone of resilient and sustainable growth.

Conversations That Matter

What made this event special wasn’t just the statistics, but the open conversations:

  • How do we balance innovation with security?

  • How do we protect people and systems without slowing down operations?

  • How do we make cybersecurity part of the culture, not just compliance?

These questions signal a shift from reactive defense to proactive resilience.

How Evvo Labs Helps Manufacturers Stay Secure

At Evvo Labs, we call our approach “Fit for Purpose Cybersecurity.” Instead of one-size-fits-all, we deliver:

  • Risk-based strategies tailored to manufacturing environments

  • Prescriptive consulting that integrates security into business goals

  • Solutions that enable productivity, safety, and growth

Looking Ahead

As digital transformation accelerates across factories, supply chains, and ecosystems, cybersecurity will remain the linchpin of success. Manufacturers who treat it as a strategic advantage, not just a compliance checkbox, will be the ones who thrive.

At Evvo Labs, we’re proud to stand alongside you in this journey, building trust and safeguarding the future. Because security isn’t about chance, it’s about choice.