Since the pandemic, more retailers than ever are creating online platforms and providing omnichannel experiences. To do this, they are incorporating key technologies into their business strategies such as cloud, artificial intelligence, big data analytics (BDA), and the Internet of Things (IoT). Including these technologies in their businesses comes with significant cybersecurity risk. As such, cybersecurity apparel companies have played an increasingly important role within the fashion industry over recent years.
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Many large retailers have already had their servers compromised. These large data breaches make headlines and can lead to millions of dollars in fines, and a loss of profit as the retailer loses business. Even when there is no evidence that the data leak has led to individual customers being targeted with fraudulent use of their financial data, the leak itself is very damaging to the retailer’s reputation. Retailers need to reassure their consumers that their data is secure and out of reach from hackers. Retailers that abuse that trust will struggle to recover from the reputational damage that data leaks cause.
Leading cybersecurity apparel companies in fashion
Digitally native retailers are more adept at incorporating cybersecurity into their strategy. E-commerce companies such as Amazon and Alibaba are both retailers and technology specialists and are therefore better positioned to develop in-house cybersecurity capabilities. However, any retailer who has incorporated digitalisation into their business needs to ensure that they are protected, partnering with tech vendors who can secure their online platforms and payment systems. Those who adopt end-to-end security will be less susceptible to cyber-attacks.
Leading adopters of cybersecurity in retail and apparel are Amazon, Alibaba and Walmart.
Discover the leading cybersecurity companies in the apparel industry
Using its experience in the sector, Just Style has listed some of the leading companies providing products and services related to cybersecurity in the fashion industry.
The information provided in the download document is drafted for apparel industry executives and technology leaders involved in cybersecurity solutions.
The download contains detailed information on suppliers and their product offerings, alongside contact details to aid purchase or hiring decisions.
Amongst the leading vendors of cybersecurity in the apparel industry are Symantec, Armis Security, McAfee, Atos, CyActive, Amazon, Alibaba Group, Akamai Technologies, WatchGuard and Dragos.
How can retailers and apparel manufacturers improve cybersecurity?
Retailers and apparel manufacturers need to adopt a holistic approach to cybersecurity to protect their large networks of data. Here are the four main ways retailers should tackle cyber threats:
- Adopt application security solutions that cover all their applications, from those used internally to popular external apps provided for use on customers’ mobile phones.
- Train employees in identifying phishing emails and ensure that hackers cannot download malware onto these devices to access the network.
- Use firewall as a service. This is a cloud-based service that allows companies to simplify their IT infrastructure and provides capabilities such as web filtering, advanced threat protection (ATP), intrusion prevention system (IPS), and domain name system (DNS) security.
- Undergo cybersecurity ‘fire drills’ to simulate worse-case scenarios in data breaches and pinpoint areas of vulnerability. Most retailers will likely incur a data breach, and post-breach response services must be in place to respond swiftly to any future attacks to reduce the potential damage. Vulnerability management, and risk and compliance services are needed to provide internal and third-party perspectives on points of cybersecurity weakness and areas for improvement.
For full details (including contact details) on the leading companies within this space, download the free Buyer’s Guide below:
Frequently asked questions
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Why is cybersecurity critical for the apparel industry?
Cybersecurity is essential in the apparel industry due to the rise in digitalisation, e-commerce platforms, and customer data management. As companies handle large volumes of sensitive data, including payment information, they become targets for cyberattacks. Strong cybersecurity measures help protect against data breaches and preserve consumer trust, ensuring operational continuity.
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How can retailers enhance their cybersecurity?
Retailers should adopt end-to-end security measures, such as application security for both internal systems and customer apps, firewall services, employee phishing training, and regular cybersecurity drills. These steps protect against threats and ensure prompt action in case of breaches.
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What are the common cybersecurity risks in the apparel industry?
The main cybersecurity risks include phishing attacks, data breaches, ransomware, and malware infiltration. With increasing reliance on e-commerce, these threats can disrupt operations, compromise sensitive data, and damage brand reputation, making robust cybersecurity a priority.
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How do IoT and cloud computing affect cybersecurity in apparel?
As the apparel industry incorporates IoT devices and cloud platforms for inventory management and real-time data access, it faces new security risks. IoT devices can be vulnerable entry points for hackers, while cloud storage requires strong encryption and monitoring to prevent data leaks.
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What role do cybersecurity companies play in the apparel sector?
Cybersecurity companies offer solutions like threat detection, real-time monitoring, data encryption, and risk management strategies. By working with these vendors, apparel companies can strengthen their digital infrastructure and secure sensitive customer and operational data from potential cyberattacks.