Cyber attack puts a spotlight on fragile global supply chains

The ransomware attack crippling one of the worlds top aluminium makers is exposing how crucial sophisticated digital systems have become in the centuries-old industry of turning mined rock into metal products.

Following a severe cyber attack on Norsk Hydro ASAs operations in the U.S. and Europe late on Monday, the company has been forced to shut down several automated product lines and is keeping its smelters running using manual production processes. While the company said it’s still able continue its deliveries to customers, that could change if the stoppages last a long time.