Cyberside Chats: Cybersecurity Insights from the Experts

When ransomware forced Jaguar Land Rover to halt production for six weeks, the impact rippled through global supply chains — from luxury car lines to small suppliers fighting to stay afloat. In this episode, Sherri Davidoff and Matt Durrin examine what happened, why manufacturing has become ransomware’s top target, and what new data from Sophos and Black Kite reveal about the latest attack trends. 

They share practical insights on how organizations can strengthen resilience, secure supply chains, and prepare for the next wave of operational ransomware attacks. 

Key Takeaways 

1. Patch and prioritize. 
   Focus on fixing known exploited vulnerabilities (CISA KEV) and critical  flaws before attackers do. 

1. Monitor your vendors continuously. 
   Move beyond annual questionnaires — use ongoing, data-driven monitoring to identify risk in your supply chain. 

1. Segment IT and OT networks. 
   Strong isolation can contain ransomware and prevent complete production shutdowns. 

1. Invest in detection and response. 
   Around-the-clock monitoring (MDR or SOC) can detect early-stage activity before encryption starts. 

1. Practice recovery. 
   Test isolation, backup, and restoration processes regularly — and include your leadership team in realistic tabletop exercises. 

References & Further Reading 

• Sophos – State of Ransomware 2025 (June 2025) 

• Black Kite – Manufacturing TPRM Report 2025 

• The Guardian – “Jaguar Land Rover Hack Shuts Factories After Cyberattack” 

• Reuters – “JLR to Restart Some Manufacturing After Six-Week Shutdown” 

• Dark Reading – Ransomware in Manufacturing: An Escalating Battle 

• LMG Security – Ransomware Prevention Best Practices Checklist