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CASE STUDY

OT Network Segmentation Safeguards Global Paper Production Across 30 Mills

Verve Industrial's Tailored Cybersecurity Solution Boosts Operational Resilience and Minimizes Downtime

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INDUSTRY

Paper and Packaging
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COMPANY SIZE

Global Enterprise
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LOCATION

Headquartered in the US
Operations in over 40 countries

Summary

As one of the largest paper and packaging companies in the world, our client operates 30 mills and 300 box plants globally. Following a ransomware attack, they needed to undergo a comprehensive network segmentation project across all their mills. Our team designed and implemented customized solutions for each mill’s unique security vulnerabilities while minimizing operational disruption. The project resulted in significantly strengthened cybersecurity, mitigating the risk of future attacks and ensuring uninterrupted operations.  

Challenges

The company suffered a ransomware attack, which had an even greater impact due to a lack of network segmentation. These challenges led them to seek help from Verve:  

1

Vulnerability to Cyber Attacks

A recent ransomware attack exposed significant security weaknesses.

2

Production Disruption

The attack led to a production shortfall of approximately 85,000 tons.

3

Limited Internal Resources

The company lacked the necessary expertise and manpower to implement comprehensive security measures.

4

Complex Environment

With 30 mills worldwide, each with unique configurations, a one-size-fits-all solution was impossible.

Verve Industrial's Solution

Verve Industrial developed a comprehensive OT network segmentation strategy, tailored to the unique needs of each facility:

  • Thorough Assessment: Conducted detailed analysis of existing operations, identifying assets and network configurations across all 30 mills.
  • Custom Segmentation Plans: Designed bespoke network segmentation strategies for each site, addressing individual requirements and constraints.
  • Global Team Coordination: Provided extensive training to ensure all teams could maintain the new segmented networks effectively.
  • Resource Optimization: Leveraged Verve’s expertise to complete the project efficiently, compensating for the client’s resource limitations.
  • Supply Chain Management: Assisted in sourcing equipment locally and internationally to address potential supply chain disruptions.

OT Network Segmentation 5 Steps

Learn our proven 5-step process to implement effective network segmentation, safeguarding your industrial operations from cyber threats.Read Now

Outcome and Benefits

The implementation of Verve Industrial’s OT network segmentation solution delivered significant improvements:

Enhanced Cybersecurity

Dramatically reduced vulnerability to future ransomware attacks across all 30 mills.

Operational Continuity

Implemented changes with minimal disruption, ensuring uninterrupted production.

Cost Efficiency

Post-implementation, the segmented network requires only 1-2 people to maintain, down from the 10 needed for implementation.

Empowered Workforce

Provided comprehensive training and documentation, enabling the client’s team to confidently maintain the new system.

Scalable Security

Established a robust security framework adaptable to future growth and technological changes.

Through Verve Industrial’s expertise in OT network segmentation, this global paper and packaging leader not only recovered from a severe cybersecurity incident but also established a robust defense against future threats. The project demonstrates how tailored, comprehensive cybersecurity solutions can enhance operational resilience in complex, global manufacturing environments.

For more information on how Verve Industrial can secure your OT network, contact us.