Manifest 2025: The Future of Freight is Here (But So Are the Cyber Threats)

Las Vegas is famous for its bright lights and larger-than-life productions, and last week’s Manifest 2025 conference delivered exactly that. But instead of dazzling stage shows, the real excitement was in robots navigating warehouse aisles, AI-driven logistics platforms, and drones promising near-instant deliveries.

Software that forecasts congestion weeks in advance and systems designed to streamline every aspect of freight management filled the expo floor. Yet beneath all the talk of speed and efficiency, a more cautionary theme kept surfacing: cybersecurity.

While this isn’t a full rundown of the event, the following highlights reveal how cybersecurity concerns took center stage, reflecting an industry-wide shift in awareness.

AI & Automation Steal the Spotlight

From the moment attendees walked in, it was clear: automation was the main attraction.

What once seemed like futuristic gimmicks—robots scanning pallets, logging updates in real time, and automating repetitive tasks—have become practical tools. On the software side, predictive analytics took the spotlight, with presenters demonstrating how data-driven insights can prevent bottlenecks and reduce idle time.

But as logistics networks become more interconnected, so do their vulnerabilities to cyber threats. Conversations quickly pivoted toward how to safeguard these powerful tools from potential attacks.

Day 1, Noon: “Staging Cybersecurity—Trends & Future Threats”

Midway through the first day, an in-depth panel explored how cyber threats have evolved over the past decade.

Speakers highlighted how ransomware and phishing, once occasional risks, have become daily threats affecting companies of all sizes. They also tackled the taboo around reporting breaches, with many logistics firms opting for silence to avoid reputational damage.

Panelists argued that this secrecy hurts the industry as a whole, preventing companies from learning from past attacks.

Key proactive strategies discussed included:
✅ Multi-factor authentication (MFA) – a must-have security measure
✅ Penetration testing – allowing ethical hackers to find vulnerabilities before criminals do
✅ Vulnerability scanning – detecting newly discovered software flaws
✅ Identifying mission-critical data – so companies know what to protect first in a breach

Day 2 (Breakfast Plenary): Patrick Kelleher on “Harnessing Megatrends”

On the second morning, Patrick Kelleher, CEO of DHL Supply Chain North America, spoke on how five key freight megatrends—including AI and digitalization—are boosting efficiency and customer service.

However, he issued a stark reminder: the more connected the supply chain becomes, the greater the cybersecurity risk.

A single vulnerability can ripple across multiple partners, showing that breakthrough innovations and strong security must go hand in hand.

Day 3, 2:00 PM: “Safeguarding the Supply Chain: Cybersecurity & Third-Party Risk”

The final session highlighted how modern logistics relies on an intricate web of third-party providers—from trucking fleets to specialized software vendors.

If just one of these partners experiences a security breach, the damage can spread across the entire network. Investors and insurers are now demanding proof that companies monitor third-party risks, rather than just securing their own systems.

Speakers emphasized the importance of:
✔️ Setting clear security standards for partners
✔️ Conducting regular assessments
✔️ Including strong cybersecurity clauses in contracts

Observations from the Showroom Floor

Conversations across the expo floor echoed two key cybersecurity misconceptions:

1️⃣ "We’re too small to be a target." Many logistics businesses assume hackers only go after big-name brands. Security experts countered that most attacks are automated and look for any weak entry point—regardless of company size.

2️⃣ "Compliance = security." Many companies chase SOC 2 or ISO 27001 certifications to win contracts with corporate clients. While helpful, true security requires ongoing monitoring, regular updates, and strict oversight of external vendors.

Looking Ahead: The Balance Between Innovation & Security

Manifest 2025 showcased the future of freight—faster, smarter, and powered by AI. But one message came through loud and clear: with greater connectivity comes greater risk.

To stay competitive, freight businesses must integrate cybersecurity into every strategy, partnership, and tool they use. Patching vulnerabilities, monitoring third-party security, and openly discussing breaches are no longer optional.

In an industry where trust and reliability are everything, strong cybersecurity is becoming the glue that holds it all together. The companies that prioritize security will lead the next era of freight—while those that don’t risk being left behind.