AI-Enabled Cybersecurity Hardships Faced by Manufacturing Industry
On August 28, 2025, an insightful webinar sponsored by Integris will delve into the cybersecurity challenges that artificial intelligence (AI) introduces into the manufacturing sector. The event, which lasts for 60 minutes, will feature Tim Freestone, the Chief Strategy Officer and AI-first strategist at Kiteworks, as a key speaker.
Tim Freestone, a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in corporate strategy and marketing leadership, brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion. Before joining Kiteworks in 2021, he served as the Vice President of Marketing at Contrast Security, where he modernized and mechanized the team's execution. Prior to that, he co-founded a marketing services agency.
The key discussion points of the webinar focus on the dual nature of AI in manufacturing. While AI has undeniably resulted in efficiency gains and better return on investment (ROI) for manufacturers, it has also opened up a "Pandora’s box" of cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
One of the main challenges lies in securing operational technology (OT) environments that were not designed for network connectivity but are now critical to AI's deployment in manufacturing systems. Plant technology, especially OT, is not typically built to be networked, as AI requires. This lack of inherent security measures can make these systems vulnerable to cyber intrusion.
The impact of AI-related breaches on financial outcomes and organizational risk is another crucial aspect of the discussion. The serious consequences of data exposures facilitated by AI underscore the need for robust security measures around AI-driven data communications and third-party risk management in manufacturing. The expanding potential attack surface due to widespread AI tool usage in data sharing, processing, and communication within manufacturing organizations is a significant concern.
Moreover, the event will highlight the importance of managing third-party risks, especially as organizations increasingly share sensitive data with AI service providers. This creates systemic vulnerabilities that need to be addressed effectively.
Tim Freestone, with his expertise as an AI-first strategist from Kiteworks, a company specializing in securing sensitive data communications, will provide valuable insights into how manufacturers can leverage AI while effectively addressing emerging cybersecurity threats.
For those interested in participating, registration and login details are available. The event starts at 12:00 PM ET, 11:00 AM CT, 9:00 AM PT, and 5:00 PM GMT. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about the cybersecurity challenges in AI-driven manufacturing and how to mitigate them.
Tim Freestone, as an AI-first strategist, will discuss cybersecurity challenges related to technology in the manufacturing sector, particularly focusing on the security of operational technology environments and the impact of AI-related breaches on financial outcomes and organizational risk.
The importance of managing third-party risks in the context of AI-driven data communications and the need for robust security measures will also be emphasized by Tim Freestone during the webinar.
