6 major supply chain cybersecurity risks to watch out for in 2025

Increasingly interconnected supply chains make robust cybersecurity more vital for industry professionals. As technologies advance, threats have become more sophisticated.

What emerging dangers and vulnerabilities should IT teams watch for in the second half of 2025? Let’s break down the six biggest risks and industry trends to keep a close eye on.

1. Quantum computing

Quantum computing is quickly emerging among technology professionals because it takes problem-solving skills beyond what typical computers can do. This computer science field leverages the principles of quantum physics through superpositions and entanglements to draw conclusions.

World leaders like the United Nations (UN) say 2025 is the year of quantum computing, though cybersecurity professionals must acknowledge the liabilities.

While quantum computing has benefits, it could spell trouble for supply chain encryption. This innovative concept can crack codes and fracture trust for companies worldwide. One of the primary threats to encryption is Shor’s algorithm, which quickly factors large integers.

Once quantum computers become more prominent, bad actors could leverage the formula and gain access to sensitive records.

2. Expanded IoT capabilities

The supply chain relies on the Internet of Things (IoT) to track shipments and enhance visibility. In 2025 and beyond, businesses worldwide will benefit from more connected devices, better battery technology, and the continued rise of 5G.

Supply chain professionals could also see improvements from the rise of low-power wide-area networks to connect their gadgets.

Without proper protection, the IoT’s ascension in 2025 could harm the worldwide economy. With more metropolitan areas worldwide using sensors to build smart cities with better utilities and traffic management, there are more vulnerabilities for bad actors to exploit.

IoT vulnerabilities are visible through weakened APIs and backend security measures, creating chaos and confusion. Experts say the IoT market will be around $77 billion in 2025, so the supply chain must fortify security apparatuses.

3. Ransomware attacks

Supply chain professionals must understand ransomware attacks and their origins, especially in 2025. The new calendar year has experienced a surge in incidents compared to previous years, alarming business leaders.

For instance, Medusa attacks have nearly doubled since early 2025, as the ransomware campaign has attacked 400 organizations since 2023 and cost them up to $15 million.

These incidents are becoming more concerning in 2025 as ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) groups rise. Cybercrime groups are increasingly using RaaS because it makes attacks more accessible.

Affiliate models decentralize ransomware attacks, so tracking the perpetrators becomes more challenging. Supply chain professionals must employ encryption and backups to mitigate the rising risks.

4. Increased robotics usage

Robotics is expanding its role in the supply chain, speeding up shipments and facilitating tasks. Companies benefit from reduced labor costs and heightened efficiency, regardless of the process. While robotics is part of the future, its increased use and attack surfaces have raised cybersecurity concerns.

Supply chain robots feature numerous sensors and cameras filled with data, thus risking exfiltration if compromised. Outside threats could gain information about product designs, layouts, and proprietary processes. A 2024 Cyber Security and Applications study outlined robotics risks like malware, viruses, and ransomware, and the researchers said remote access features only increase vulnerability.

5. AI-Driven attacks

AI has positively contributed to the supply chain through better demand forecasting, as well as inventory and warehouse management. These benefits will continue in 2025, though cybersecurity professionals must be vigilant of AI-driven attacks on companies and organizations. The emergence of malicious tools should concern business leaders and IT teams.

Sophisticated systems can leverage AI for social engineering attacks, such as deepfake audio and video elements. Bad actors can impersonate supply chain professionals when deploying phishing attacks and malware.

In 2025, your company must also be aware of autonomous malware that can adapt to the environment in real time. A recent survey revealed that 91% of security experts expect AI-powered attacks to surge this decade.

6. Geopolitical factors

In 2024, the UN adopted the first comprehensive global treaty at its cybercrime convention. The General Assembly provided member nations with measures to enhance cybersecurity, which becomes essential when geopolitical tensions are high. These outside factors have affected the supply chain through material and labor shortages and shipping delays.

Supply chain companies are at risk due to state-sponsored cyberattacks and rising tensions. If international feuds escalate, these businesses could find themselves in the middle of a conflict.

Considering recent events, the relationship between the US and China should be on the radar of cybersecurity professionals. Last December, Chinese officials admitted their role in the Volt Typhoon attacks on US infrastructure.

Safeguarding the supply chain in 2025

Cybersecurity is rapidly evolving in 2025, so supply chain professionals and IT teams should stay updated with major changes. Advanced technologies like AI and IoT have benefited companies, while quantum computing is on the horizon.

While the advantages are clear, these innovations may increase risks in late 2025 and beyond.

Author Bio: Oscar Collins is a tech writer with bylines at Gizmodo and United States Cybersecurity Magazine. Check out Modded for more of his work, or follow him on X @TModded for frequent updates.