Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT issue, it’s a business-critical concern, especially for manufacturers.

As the manufacturing industry becomes more connected and automated, the risk of cyberattacks continues to rise. And while operational technology often gets the spotlight, financial systems are just as vulnerable, if not more.

From payment fraud and phishing scams to unauthorized wire transfers, financial cybercrime is a growing threat. In this blog, we’ll explore why manufacturers are increasingly targeted, what vulnerabilities exist in your payment systems, and what banking tools you can use to protect your money and your reputation.

Why Manufacturers Are Now a Prime Target

Hackers and cybercriminals see manufacturing companies as ideal victims. Why?

• Complex supply chains with frequent vendor payments
• Large-dollar transactions that move quickly
• Legacy systems with inconsistent cybersecurity practices
• Just-in-time purchasing that pressures teams to act fast
• Low tolerance for operational downtime, which makes businesses more likely to pay ransomware demands

In short: manufacturers often have valuable data, money in motion, and limited time to double-check every transaction. That’s a dangerous combination.

Common Financial Threats to Manufacturers

1. Business Email Compromise (BEC)
   A hacker impersonates a vendor or executive and requests a fake wire transfer, often using a real-looking invoice or spoofed email domain.
2. Check Fraud
   Paper checks remain common in manufacturing, but they’re easy to intercept, forge, or duplicate.
3. Phishing Attacks
   Disguised emails that trick your team into sharing sensitive login credentials or account information.
4. Malware or Ransomware
   Malicious software that locks down your systems and demands payment to regain access, sometimes stealing financial data in the process.

How to Protect Your Payments with Banking Tools

You don’t need to overhaul your systems overnight—but taking smart steps today can save you from serious losses tomorrow. Here are banking solutions that add security without adding complexity:

• Positive Pay
  This fraud prevention tool cross-references checks or ACH payments against a list of approved transactions. Any discrepancies get flagged for your review before funds are released.
• Dual Control & User Permissions
  Require two separate approvals for high-value payments or wire transfers. Limit access so only certain employees can initiate or approve transactions.
• Out-of-Band Verification
•  Use of multi-factor authentication makes it harder for hackers to gain access.
• Real-Time Alerts
  Get instant notifications for payments, balances, or unusual activity so you can act fast if something looks suspicious.

Cybersecurity Is a Team Effort

Even with the best tools, the most important defense is employee awareness. Manufacturers should:

• Train staff regularly on identifying phishing and fraud
• Create a clear protocol for handling vendor payment requests
• Establish communication policies, especially around wire transfers
• Schedule periodic reviews of account permissions and user access

Partnering with a Bank That Prioritizes Security

At Falcon National Bank, we understand the unique risks manufacturers face and offer robust fraud prevention tools designed to protect your money without slowing down your operations. We work closely with our business clients to create layered security strategies that match their workflows and risk tolerance.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

A single fraudulent transaction can cost your business thousands, or even more. Let’s get ahead of the threat and secure your payment systems now. Contact our Treasury Management team today to schedule a cybersecurity checkup and explore tools that protect your payments, your vendors, and your peace of mind.