Manufacturing is the most targeted of the 16 critical infrastructure sectors recognized by the U.S. government for cyberattacks. The wave of targeted attacks that disrupted operations at major manufacturers over the past year serves as a clear warning: cybersecurity is no longer an IT issue alone, but a fundamental requirement for business continuity. In 2026, protecting your manufacturing operations means building security into every layer of your technology stack.
The Threat Landscape in 2026
More than 40.6 billion cyberattack attempts were recorded in the first half of 2025 alone, and the threats facing manufacturers continue to evolve. AI-powered attacks automate reconnaissance and exploit vulnerabilities at a scale that manual defenses cannot match. Nation-state actors target manufacturers for intellectual property theft and economic disruption. Ransomware remains a persistent threat, with attackers specifically targeting production systems to maximize the pressure to pay.
The convergence of IT and OT (operational technology) systems creates new vulnerabilities. As manufacturers connect shop floor equipment to enterprise networks for real-time monitoring and analytics, the attack surface expands significantly. A breach that reaches production systems can halt manufacturing lines, damage equipment, and compromise product quality.
Building a Security-First Manufacturing Operation
Governance and Data Management
Leading manufacturers prioritize governance by implementing master data management, cleansing protocols, and standardized processes. For manufacturing environments, this includes protecting intellectual property and trade secrets, addressing supply chain data-sharing requirements, and managing the integration of operational technology data with enterprise systems.
Supply Chain Security
Manufacturers depend on extensive supply chains involving numerous vendors and contractors. Insufficient oversight and varying cybersecurity maturity among partners create a broad attack surface. A comprehensive security strategy includes vendor risk assessments, secure data exchange protocols, and continuous monitoring of partner access to your systems.
Business Continuity Planning
Cybersecurity and business continuity are inseparable. A sound backup strategy and regular disaster recovery testing are essential, yet many manufacturers still lack adequate plans. Business continuity planning for manufacturers must address production system recovery, supply chain communication during incidents, customer notification procedures, and regulatory reporting requirements.
Compliance and Certification
In 2026, compliance requirements continue to expand. GDPR enforcement, the EU AI Act, U.S. state privacy laws, and industry-specific requirements like CMMC for defense contractors all demand documented security practices. Manufacturers who embed compliance into their security workflows, rather than treating it as a separate exercise, reduce both risk and audit burden.
Security as a Business Enabler
Organizations that approach cybersecurity strategically, embracing emerging technologies while maintaining robust governance, find themselves with significant competitive advantages. Customers and partners increasingly require evidence of security maturity before doing business. A strong security posture becomes a selling point, not just a cost center.
The Synesis Approach
Synesis International helps manufacturers build cybersecurity and business continuity programs that protect production while enabling innovation. We assess your current security posture, identify vulnerabilities across IT and OT environments, and implement layered defenses that align with your business requirements and compliance obligations.