The Dark Side of Additive Manufacturing: Why IP Theft is the Additive Manufacturing Industry's Overlooked Challenge

Why IP Theft Is the AM Industry’s Dirty Secret

Additive manufacturing promises faster, more flexible, and more distributed production. But behind the efficiency gains lies a risk the industry is still reluctant to confront: cybersecurity and IP protection. As AM workflows go digital - from CAD designs to process monitoring data - they also open the door to cyber threats and theft of valuable intellectual property. For industries like aerospace and defence, where design integrity is everything, this risk is more than theoretical.

The Problem No One Wants to Talk About

Digital AM workflows depend on data moving seamlessly between design, simulation, machines, and suppliers. Every stage introduces a potential vulnerability:

• Design files can be intercepted or copied without authorization.

• Process data (machine parameters, build logs) can reveal sensitive know-how.

• Networked printers are often shipped without strong cybersecurity controls, leaving them open to exploitation.

This isn’t speculation. Aerospace and defence organisations are already vocal:

• BAE Systems has emphasized that IP and data security are as critical as part quality.

• L3Harris and other aerospace leaders have pointed out that many industrial 3D printers lack basic cybersecurity features expected in other connected equipment.

Why It Matters

The implications go far beyond isolated data leaks:

• IP Theft: Designs stolen once can be reproduced endlessly, undermining competitive advantage.

• Quality Risks: Tampered files can alter a part’s geometry or parameters, introducing flaws invisible until failure.

• Adoption Barriers: Until cybersecurity is embedded in AM workflows, many companies - particularly in regulated industries - hesitate to scale or outsource production.

How Authentise Helps Protect Your IP

At Authentise, we understand that protecting digital assets is as important as optimising workflows. That’s why security is built into the core of our products:

• Controlled Access: Granular permissions ensure only the right people see the right data at the right time.

• Traceability: Every action - from file upload to machine execution - is logged, providing a full digital audit trail.

• Secure Data Handling: Encrypted transfer and storage protect sensitive design files and process data.

• Integration with Existing Systems: Our workflows connect with enterprise IT and cybersecurity frameworks, rather than working in isolation.

This combination helps companies scale additive manufacturing securely - enabling collaboration and outsourcing without losing control of critical IP.

The Road Ahead

The industry can’t ignore the “dirty secret” forever. If additive manufacturing is to fulfil its promise of distributed, on-demand production, stronger protections are non-negotiable:

• Secure file transfer and storage.

• Access control and traceability throughout the workflow.

• Built-in cybersecurity features for machines and software.

• Standards and certifications for secure digital manufacturing.

Only by addressing cybersecurity and IP protection head-on can AM deliver trust alongside innovation.

Ready to Secure Your AM Workflow?

Don’t let cybersecurity risks hold back your additive manufacturing ambitions. With Authentise, you can scale production, share designs, and collaborate confidently - without compromising on IP protection.

👉 Get in touch with our team to learn how Authentise safeguards your digital manufacturing workflow.