Cybersecurity for Logistics and Distribution Operations

When warehouse systems go down, shipments stop. Logistics companies run on a complex mix of warehouse management systems, fleet telematics, IoT devices, and enterprise networks. We deliver hands-on infrastructure security that keeps operations running and meets supply chain compliance requirements.

The Challenge.

Why logistics and distribution companies struggle with cybersecurity

Warehouse OT/IT Convergence

Warehouse management systems, RFID scanners, barcode readers, and automated sorting equipment all connect to enterprise IT networks. This convergence creates attack paths from corporate email straight to warehouse operations. A single phishing click can reach systems that control physical operations.

Fleet & IoT Device Security

GPS trackers, electronic logging devices, telematics units, and connected vehicle systems expand the threat landscape far beyond the warehouse. These devices often run outdated firmware, lack encryption, and connect over cellular networks with minimal security controls.

Supply Chain Partner Risk

Logistics runs 24/7. Ransomware targeting warehouse management or transportation management systems halts shipments across entire supply chains. Average downtime from a logistics cyber incident exceeds 14 days. Recovery costs include lost contracts, SLA penalties, and customer churn.

Uptime-Critical Operations

Logistics runs 24/7. Ransomware targeting warehouse management or transportation management systems halts shipments across entire supply chains. Average downtime from a logistics cyber incident exceeds 14 days. Recovery costs include lost contracts, SLA penalties, and customer churn.

Shipment Data & PII Protection

Shipping manifests, customs declarations, customer addresses, and payment information flow through dozens of systems and handoffs. Each integration point is a potential exposure. Data must be protected in transit, at rest, and across partner systems.

Compliance & Audit Requirements

C-TPAT certification, ISO 27001, SOC 2 for 3PLs, DOT electronic logging requirements, and customer security questionnaires demand documented security programs. Without a formal program, logistics companies fail audits and lose contracts to competitors who can demonstrate compliance.

How we help.

Cybersecurity and infrastructure services designed for logistics operations

OT/IT Network Segmentation

Architect and implement network separation between warehouse OT systems and corporate IT. Prevent lateral movement from email or web compromises into systems that control physical operations.

Fleet & IoT Hardening

Inventory connected devices — GPS, ELD, telematics, RFID — assess firmware, implement network controls, and deploy monitoring for anomalous device behavior across your fleet.

Supply Chain Compliance

Achieve C-TPAT, ISO 27001, or SOC 2 certification. Build documented security programs that satisfy client audits and protect contract relationships.

Incident Response & Recovery

Build and test incident response plans focused on operational continuity. Ensure warehouse and TMS systems can recover rapidly. Minimize shipment disruption during cyber events.

By The Numbers

The impact of cybersecurity on logistics operations

48%

of logistics companies experienced a cyber incident in the past year

14 days

average operational downtime from a logistics ransomware attack

#3

most-targeted industry for supply chain attacks

Common Questions

Frequently asked questions about logistics cybersecurity

What are the biggest cyber threats to logistics companies?
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Logistics companies face ransomware targeting warehouse management and transportation management systems, business email compromise for freight payment fraud, supply chain attacks through compromised partner connections, IoT device exploitation across fleet telematics and warehouse sensors, and insider threats from high-turnover warehouse staff with broad system access.

How do you secure warehouse technology and OT systems?
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Warehouse OT security requires network segmentation separating WMS, RFID, and automation systems from corporate IT. Deploy monitoring for anomalous traffic, restrict remote access to OT networks, implement access controls for warehouse staff, keep systems patched where possible, and build incident response procedures specific to warehouse operations.

What compliance requirements apply to logistics companies?
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Logistics firms may need C-TPAT certification for customs and border protection, ISO 27001 for enterprise client requirements, SOC 2 for third-party logistics operations, DOT electronic logging device compliance, PCI DSS if processing freight payments, and various client-specific security questionnaires. Requirements depend on customer base and services offered.

How do logistics companies protect against ransomware?
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Ransomware protection for logistics requires network segmentation isolating critical WMS and TMS systems, regular tested backups with offline copies, endpoint detection and response on all systems, multi-factor authentication, email security to block phishing, staff training, and incident response plans with specific procedures for maintaining shipment operations during an attack.

Testimonials

Join the success stories

"Principle Security was instrumental in guiding us through our recent infrastructure and cybersecurity initiatives. Their partnership was reliable, professional, and results‑driven, which is why we continue to engage them whenever new opportunities arise."

Marcin W.

IT and Security Director

Industrial and Manufacturing Technology

“Their team helped us prioritize risk without overwhelming us with jargon or checklists. Practical guidance that actually moved the needle.”

Jonathan B.

Information Security Manager

Community Credit Union

"They stepped in during a critical project and brought stability fast—tight execution, clear communication, and zero babysitting required."

Karen S.

VP of Technology

Mid-Sized SaaS Provider

“With their managed services handling patching, backups, and detection, our internal team finally has room to focus. Reliable, low-noise, and effective.”

Dave M.

Head of IT

Manufacturing Company

“We didn’t need a full-time CISO—we needed experience and flexibility. Their fractional leadership model gave us exactly that.”

Emma R.

COO

Multi-State Healthcare Provider

“Our compliance program was scattered. They brought structure, clarity, and got us aligned with FFIEC and NIST—finally audit-ready and confident.”

Michael S.

VP of Risk & Compliance

Regional Credit Union

“Principle Security helped us redesign our entire security stack without disrupting operations. They understood our infrastructure and delivered clean, scalable solutions.”

Sarah Y.

CIO

Mid-Market Financial Services Firm