What Are Supply Chain Attacks in the Context of Logistics
A supply chain attack in logistics is a cyberattack that exploits trusted relationships between a logistics company and its suppliers, partners, or subcontractors. Instead of directly attacking a well-protected company, cybercriminals target a weaker link in the ecosystem.
In logistics, the ICT supply chain is particularly extensive:
- TMS (Transport Management System) vendors
- WMS (Warehouse Management System) vendors
- Telematics and GPS operators
- Courier companies and transport subcontractors
- IoT device suppliers (scanners, sensors, gateways)
- EDI systems and integration platforms
Each of these elements is a potential entry point. In 2025, supply chain attacks accounted for a significant share of all incidents in the logistics sector, and their share has grown markedly in recent years.
Supply Chain Attack Vectors in Logistics
TMS/WMS software compromise The attacker infects a TMS or WMS system update. All companies using this software receive the malicious update — analogous to the SolarWinds attack. In 2024, an attack on a European TMS vendor affected 340 transport companies.
Attack through a transport subcontractor A subcontractor with low IT security becomes an entry point. Through their compromised VPN account or EDI system, the attacker gains access to the main logistics operator’s network.
IoT device compromise Temperature sensors, GPS trackers, barcode scanners — IoT devices in logistics are rarely updated and often have default credentials. An infected device becomes a foothold in the network.
Integration platform attack EDI platforms, API brokers, and integration systems connecting multiple supply chain participants. Compromising one platform provides access to data from all connected companies.
Data manipulation in transit Changing shipment data in the EDI system — redirecting cargo, changing delivery address, modifying customs documents. These attacks can be difficult to detect because they do not require taking control of systems.
Real Incidents — Lessons for the Industry
NotPetya and Maersk (2017) The NotPetya ransomware attack paralyzed Maersk. 45,000 computers, 4,000 servers destroyed. Entry point: Ukrainian accounting software M.E.Doc (supply chain).
Colonial Pipeline Attack (2021) Ransomware on a US fuel pipeline operator. Fuel supply disruption on the East Coast for 6 days. Ransom: $4.4 million. Impact on the entire logistics chain — fuel shortages, delivery delays.
Port of Nagoya Attack (2023) LockBit ransomware paralyzed Japan’s largest cargo port. Container operations halted, nationwide delivery delays. Entry point: VPN vulnerability.
Each of these incidents demonstrates the cascade effect — an attack on one element of the logistics chain causes disruptions across the entire ecosystem.
How to Protect the Supply Chain from Cyberattacks
Vendor risk management:
- Cybersecurity assessment of vendors before onboarding
- Security requirements in contracts (SLA, right to audit)
- Regular security audits of critical vendors
- Continuous monitoring of vendor security posture (security ratings)
Segmentation and isolation:
- Network segmentation — vendor systems do not have access to core systems
- Firewall and microsegmentation between zones
- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) instead of site-to-site VPN
- Separate environments for integration with each vendor
Integrity monitoring:
- Software update integrity verification (code signing)
- Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) for critical systems
- Anomaly monitoring in communication with vendor systems
- SOC with lateral movement detection rules
Continuity planning:
- Action plan in case of critical vendor compromise
- Alternative operational paths (fallback to manual processes)
- Regular continuity plan testing (tabletop exercises)
- Cyber insurance covering supply chain incidents
NIS2 and Supply Chain Security in Logistics
The NIS2 directive classifies transport and logistics as essential sectors. Article 21 requires:
- ICT supply chain risk management — formal vendor risk assessment and monitoring
- Security in system acquisition — security requirements in the procurement process
- Incident reporting — obligation to report supply chain-related incidents
- Audits and testing — regular security testing, including supply chain
Logistics companies must comply with NIS2 or risk fines of up to EUR 10 million or 2% of global turnover.
How nFlo Supports Supply Chain Security
Our services include:
- NIS2-compliant ICT supply chain security audit
- Penetration testing of integration interfaces (EDI, API, VPN)
- Network segmentation and ZTNA implementation
- 24/7 security monitoring with lateral movement detection
- Support in building a vendor risk management program
Cybersecurity for Your Industry
Learn more about cybersecurity in your industry:
Related topics
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Frequently asked questions
How does a supply chain attack differ from a regular cyberattack?
A supply chain attack targets a weaker link in the chain (supplier, subcontractor, software vendor) to reach the actual target through them. Instead of attacking the logistics company directly, the attacker compromises, for example, a TMS system provider.
Which logistics companies are most at risk?
The highest risk is borne by companies with extensive subcontractor chains, those using multiple IT systems from different vendors, and critical infrastructure operators (ports, terminals, strategic warehouses).
Does ISO 27001 certification protect against supply chain attacks?
ISO 27001 covers supplier security management (Annex A.15), but certification alone does not guarantee protection. What matters is practical implementation — regular vendor audits, software integrity monitoring, and network segmentation.
How does NIS2 change the approach to supply chain security?
NIS2 requires essential entities (including logistics companies) to formally manage ICT supply chain risk, conduct vendor audits, and report incidents. Non-compliance carries fines of up to EUR 10 million or 2% of turnover.
