Smart manufacturing is the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, and Internet of Things (IoT) to optimize the production process and enhance the quality, efficiency, and flexibility of manufacturing. However, smart manufacturing also faces significant cybersecurity challenges, such as data breaches, cyberattacks, malware infections, and sabotage.
These threats can compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of manufacturing systems and data, resulting in financial losses, operational disruptions, reputational damages, and even physical harm.
To address these challenges, ACW South was established in 2019 as Taiwan’s first cybersecurity hub for smart manufacturing, an initiative by Taiwan’s Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA). ACW South is located in the Shalun Smart Green Energy Science City in Tainan and is supported by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Industrial Technology Research Institute. ACW South aims to assist the industry in enhancing cybersecurity capabilities, promote cross-domain collaboration and co-creation among Taiwan’s cybersecurity industry and smart manufacturing industry, and cultivate cybersecurity talent.
During our visit to ACW South, we were introduced to the core services provided: cybersecurity testing field, cyberattack and defense training scenarios, product testing, and cybersecurity consulting. The cybersecurity testing field is a simulated smart manufacturing environment that can be used to demonstrate, test, and verify various cybersecurity solutions and products.
The cyberattack and defense training scenarios are designed to provide realistic and immersive learning experiences for cybersecurity professionals and practitioners. The product testing service helps manufacturers to evaluate the security performance and compliance of their products according to international standards and regulations. The cybersecurity consulting service offers customized advice and guidance on how to improve the security posture and resilience of manufacturing systems.
By providing comprehensive cybersecurity services and fostering innovation and collaboration among stakeholders, ACW South hopes to contribute to the development and security of Taiwan’s smart manufacturing industry.
