Driving Risk Reduction – How a vCISO Enhanced Cybersecurity for an Automotive Components Manufacturer
In today’s cyber landscape, Small to Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs) face unique security challenges, often lacking dedicated resources despite managing complex industrial systems and valuable intellectual property. This case study illustrates how a Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) service provided strategic leadership to bolster the cybersecurity posture of a mid-sized Automotive Components Manufacturer, Fidelity Gears Inc.
The Challenge: Operating in a High-Risk Environment
Fidelity Gears, a growing manufacturer of specialized automotive components, had a cybersecurity infrastructure that had not kept pace with its expansion. Their IT team focused on operations, with limited expertise in cybersecurity strategy or risk management.
Key challenges included:
No strategic security direction – Security efforts were reactive, lacking a clear roadmap or documented policies.
Ransomware vulnerability. Operational technology (OT) systems were at risk of attacks that could halt production.
Supply chain exposure. There was a risk of being targeted as an entry point to larger clients.
Compliance demands. Increasing pressure from enterprise clients required adherence to frameworks like ISO 27001 and NIST.
Budget constraints. Hiring a full-time CISO was financially out of reach.
Employee awareness gaps. Low cybersecurity awareness increased the risk of phishing and social engineering attacks.
Fidelity Gears’ leadership recognized the urgent need for proactive measures to avoid financial losses, reputational damage, and operational disruptions.
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The Solution: On-Demand Strategic Cybersecurity Leadership
Fidelity Gears engaged a vCISO service to bridge their security gaps. The vCISO worked closely with company leadership, offering strategic guidance equivalent to that of a full-time CISO. The engagement included:
Initial assessment of IT and OT environments to identify vulnerabilities and compliance gaps
Development of a tailored cybersecurity roadmap aligned with business goals
Creation of essential security policies and procedures
Establishment of a risk management framework
Guidance on meeting compliance requirements such as ISO 27001
Evaluation of third-party vendor security
Development and testing of a formal incident response plan
Implementation of a security awareness training program with phishing simulations
Technology recommendations, including multi-factor authentication and endpoint detection and response tools
Regular reporting and alignment meetings with leadership
The Impact: A Resilient and Compliant Manufacturer
Within the first year, Fidelity Gears achieved significant improvements in its cybersecurity posture:
Reduced risk through the remediation of critical vulnerabilities
Enhanced compliance by proactively addressing client requirements and preparing for ISO 2001 certification
Stronger security culture as employees began reporting suspicious activities
Improved preparedness with an actionable and tested incident response plan
Cost-effective expertise by gaining executive-level cybersecurity leadership without hiring a full-time CISO
A clear strategic vision supported informed decision-making by company leadership
Conclusion
The case of Fidelity Gears highlights the value of vCISO services for manufacturing SMBs. In an increasingly threatened digital world, strategic cybersecurity leadership is essential. A vCISO offers a flexible, cost-effective solution that helps businesses build robust defenses, meet compliance obligations, and focus on core operations. For manufacturers seeking a secure future, a vCISO is a crucial strategic partner