Purpose: Operator 5.0 represents a paradigm shift in how humans and machines interact and work together in industrial contexts. It leverages advanced digital technologies and automation to optimise processes, enhance productivity and create new possibilities. However, these advanced possibilities also introduce significant cybersecurity challenges. This paper explores the cybersecurity challenges and threats faced by Operator 5.0, emphasising the vulnerabilities inherent in human-machine collaboration, industrial IoT and supply chain integration.

Design/methodology/approach: The paper uses a qualitative approach, using a literature review, to analyse the cybersecurity risks associated with Operator 5.0 and proposes a comprehensive cybersecurity framework to address these challenges.

Findings: The paper identifies key vulnerabilities arising from human–machine collaboration, IIoT and supply chain integration within the Operator 5.0 context. It argues that these vulnerabilities pose significant risks to industrial operations and sensitive data. The proposed framework offers a multi-layered approach to mitigating these risks.

Originality/value: This paper offers a novel perspective on the cybersecurity implications of Operator 5.0. It proposes a holistic framework integrating hardware, software and liveware (human element) to establish human-centric security measures, advanced threat detection and response mechanisms and resilient infrastructure for Operator 5.0 deployments.