In an increasingly interconnected world, your business is only as secure as the weakest link in its supply chain. Recent cyber-attacks affecting major retailers like M&S, Co-op, and Harrods have highlighted a growing threat, whilst details have not yet been released as to the cause of these recent attacks, something that will have many concerned about is supply chain attacks. These are not just IT issues — the impact can be seen on shop floors, in logistics centres, and across customer service channels. Empty shelves, delayed deliveries, and operational disruptions are just the tip of the iceberg. 

According to the 2024 Cyber Security Breaches Survey by the UK government, over half of medium-sized businesses (56%) and large businesses (70%) reported breaches or attacks in the last 12 months – and supply chain vulnerabilities played a significant role. The misconception that only large enterprises are targeted is dangerous. SMEs, often with less mature security practices, can be just as exposed, particularly if they’re linked to larger organisations. 

What is a Supply Chain Attack?

A supply chain attack occurs when cyber criminals infiltrate your organisation by exploiting vulnerabilities in your third-party vendors, suppliers, or service providers. These attacks often bypass the direct defences of a company by targeting a less secure partner with privileged access. From software updates laced with malware to compromised login credentials, the methods are varied – and increasingly sophisticated. 

Practical Steps to Reduce the Risk

While no organisation can eliminate risk entirely, there are proactive steps businesses of all sizes can take to protect themselves and their partners: 

1. Know Who Has Access – and How Much

Begin with a thorough audit of your external suppliers. Identify what systems, data, and applications they can access. Apply the principle of “least privilege” — suppliers should only have the minimum level of access required for their work. Remove any dormant accounts and regularly review permission levels.

2. Watch Every Link – Literally

Email remains one of the most common entry points for attackers. Train your staff to be cautious with links and attachments, even if they appear to come from trusted suppliers. Tools like VirusTotal and Browserling can help verify links before they’re clicked. Encourage the use of sandbox environments or reputable anti-malware scanners for opening attachments.

3. Refresh Supplier Agreements and Policies

A once-and-done approach doesn’t cut it. Review your supplier contracts and cyber security policies at least annually. Agreements should clearly define each party’s security responsibilities and include breach notification procedures. Ensure you have up-to-date contact information for suppliers, ideally with an alternative communication method in case of a cyber incident.

4. Bolster Your Overall Cyber Defences

Ensure your business has a strong cyber security posture. This includes having an established incident response plan and ideally a retainer in place with a trusted cyber security partner. Regular policy reviews and staff training can make a significant difference when the unexpected occurs.

5. Conduct Regular Cyber Security Audits

An annual audit can provide a clear picture of where your vulnerabilities lie and offer actionable steps for improvement. These assessments are not just about ticking boxes — they’re about building resilience across your entire organisation.

Final Thoughts

Supply chain attacks are not a niche concern. They’re a fast-growing threat that can disrupt operations, erode customer trust, and lead to significant financial loss. By taking a proactive approach – tightening access controls, staying vigilant about email threats, maintaining strong supplier relationships, and investing in robust security practices – businesses can significantly reduce their exposure 

If you would like to learn more about supply chain attacks or anything mentioned in the above article, please reach out directly to our Cyber team at cyber-security@intaforensics.com or call: 024 7771 7780.