SonicWall Research Finds Manufacturing Cybersecurity At A Breaking Point As Factory Floors And Corporate Networks Collide

* New Manufacturing Protect Brief reveals 43 million camera attacks and the highest industrial control attack rate of any industry

SonicWall today released its 2026 Manufacturing Protect Brief, a vertical-specific companion to the SonicWall 2026 Cyber Protect Report.

The findings show that factories are increasingly opening up critical new entry points for hackers. Consequently, while the total volume of cyberattacks on the manufacturing sector has actually decreased, hackers are executing much more precise, highly targeted strikes on these digital gaps.

Manufacturing recorded a 56.2% year-over-year decline in intrusion prevention (IPS) volume in the first half of 2026, the steepest drop of any tracked vertical. But the decline does not reflect reduced risk. Absolute volume remains significant at 474 million events, and as more operational technology connects to IT infrastructure, the attack surface is expanding even as attackers grow more selective about where they strike.

"Manufacturing’s attack surface looks nothing like it did even five years ago, and the security model hasn’t caught up," said Michael Crean, SonicWall SVP of Managed Services. "Every connection added for operational convenience, remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, vendor access to production systems, is also a connection an attacker can walk through. A stolen credential shouldn’t be able to reach the production floor, but in most manufacturing environments today, it can."

SonicWall’s Manufacturing Protect Brief draws on data from SonicWall’s global network of more than one million security sensors to document the specific attack patterns, legacy vulnerabilities and ransomware campaigns defining the manufacturing threat landscape in the first half of 2026.

Key Findings from the 2026 SonicWall Manufacturing Protect Brief

The Hikvision IP Camera Command Injection vulnerability (CVE-2021-36260), disclosed in 2021, continued to generate 43 million hits in H1 2026, the single largest IoT attack signature across any industry SonicWall tracks.

IoT attacks were manufacturing’s second-largest attack category by volume, generating 46.2 million hits, with more than half of manufacturing networks detecting exploitation attempts.

Manufacturing recorded the highest SCADA attack detection rate of any tracked vertical.

Ten ransomware families were active against manufacturing networks in H1 2026; the Zhen family alone generated 22.2 million hits concentrated on just two devices, a pattern consistent with an active, ongoing incident rather than a broad campaign.

Apache Log4j2 generated 13.8 million detection events on manufacturing networks, more than four years after the vulnerability was first disclosed.

Unlocked Doors

Between networked security cameras, industrial sensors, and smart building controls, today's factories are packed with connected devices that were never designed with modern security in mind. They run on old software, are rarely patched, and sit on the exact same networks as critical production lines. This means old vulnerabilities never really go away. For example, a well-known Hikvision camera flaw from five years ago is still one of the most common threats detected on factory networks today.

The danger multiplied as companies connected their corporate offices to their physical plant floors to allow for remote monitoring and automated maintenance. Because these networks are linked, a single employee password stolen through a phishing email is often all a hacker needs to jump from the front office straight into the systems that control physical machinery.

"Manufacturing doesn’t have a sophistication problem, it has an architecture problem," continues Crean. "The factory floor is now part of the corporate network. Until we start continuously verifying every user and restricting their access to only the specific apps they need, one stolen password will continue to be enough to shut down a plant."

The Architecture Problem Has a Known Solution

The vulnerabilities documented in the Manufacturing Protect Brief are well understood, and the controls that address them exist. SonicWall Cloud Secure Edge applies Zero Trust principles to every access request, granting application-level access only and continuously re-verifying identity and device posture rather than treating a validated credential as a blanket pass to the network behind it.

For manufacturers managing vendor and maintenance access to production systems, remote monitoring tools and ERP integrations, replacing broad VPN-based access with application-level Zero Trust removes the condition that makes credential compromise consequential: a stolen login no longer grants a path to the systems that run the production floor.

About SonicWall
For more than 30 years, SonicWall has championed a partner-first model that combines purpose-built technology, cloud-delivered security services and real-time threat intelligence to help businesses prevent breaches, reduce risk and stay operational in the face of evolving modern threats. We are committed to deliver the best security outcomes for our customers where others deliver features and functions.  Through its unified cybersecurity portfolio and global community of over 17,000 partners, SonicWall enables managed service providers to actively manage, continuously optimize and measurably protect networks, cloud environments, endpoints and applications. The company is redefining cybersecurity around outcomes that matter to business leaders, including breach prevention, compliance achievement, cost efficiency and reduced human error, because protection is not about what a product can do but about what it actually delivers.

Axis Finance Launches Drishti To Accelerate Data-Led Credit Decisioning

* Configurable digital platform to enhance speed, consistency and data-led decisioning across loan journeys

* Aims to improve turnaround times and strengthen risk oversight across retail and MSME lending

Axis Finance Limited (AFL), one of India’s fast-growing non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), today announced the launch of Axis Finance Drishti, its in-house Business Rules Engine (BRE). The platform is designed to bring greater speed, consistency and intelligence to credit decision-making. In its first phase, Drishti has been rolled out for Personal Loans, Business Loans, Loan Against Property and Disha Home Loans.

Developed as a configurable digital platform, Drishti enables automated and policy-driven credit assessments by combining underwriting workflows with data-led insights and statistical scorecards. The platform incorporates real-time decisioning, dynamic policy implementation and integration with multiple data sources including alternate data to support both straight-through processing (STP) and assisted credit journeys.

The initiative has been introduced in alignment with AFL’s core strategy, ‘Grow the Good’, to strengthen its digital lending & technical capabilities and enhance the overall borrowing experience for customers. It is expected to drive operational excellence by enabling faster, smarter and more scalable credit decisioning, improving efficiency while delivering a more seamless and frictionless loan journey.

With Drishti, AFL aims to bring greater standardization to credit evaluation, thereby enhancing consistency and governance in lending decisions. This marks a key step in Axis Finance’s ongoing focus on leveraging technology and analytics to simplify lending processes while reinforcing disciplined risk management and operational efficiency.

Commenting on the development, Sai Giridhar, MD & CEO, Axis Finance Limited, said, “At Axis Finance, our focus is on building a more agile and analytics enabled lending ecosystem. With the launch of Axis Finance Drishti, we are strengthening our ability to deliver faster, more consistent credit decisions by embedding intelligence, advance analytics and automated credit workflows into our core decisioning frameworks, while maintaining strong governance and risk discipline. As we scale, investments in such capabilities will be critical to enhancing customer experience, improving portfolio quality and supporting sustainable portfolio growth.”

Axis Finance continues to prioritise customer experience through ongoing investments in technology and process improvements. Over the past year, the Company has introduced initiatives such as ABC Scorecards to enhance objectivity in credit assessment and an AI-assisted quality monitoring framework for collection, reinforcing fair and transparent customer interactions. Together, these efforts reflect AFL’s focus on combining analytics, technology and governance to drive more efficient and customer-centric lending journeys.

About Axis Finance Limited

AFL was incorporated in India on 27th April 1995 and is a subsidiary of Axis Bank. It is a non-deposit accepting non-banking finance company (NBFC) regulated by the RBI.

AFL is a diversified, AAA rated NBFC serving Retail, MSME and Corporates with a clear focus on lending to India’s enterprise ecosystem. On the retail front, AFL offers a diversified suite of products including Loans Against Property, Personal Loans, Business Loans, Shakti M-LAP, Disha-HL, Home Loans, Kushal Loans and Vyapar Loans. In the MSME segment, the Company operates through its dedicated Retail Banking Group (RBG), Business Banking Group (BBG), and SME verticals. The corporate portfolio includes Collateralized Lending, Corporate Financing, and Real Estate Funding.

www.axisfinance.in

Godrej Enterprises Group Strengthens Advanced Tooling Capabilities To Support Automotive Manufacturing Landscape

As India's automotive industry advances towards greater localisation, next-generation mobility platforms, and increasingly sophisticated manufacturing processes, Godrej Enterprises Group's Tooling business is strengthening its advanced engineering and manufacturing capabilities to support the evolving requirements of OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers. With over 85% of its business linked to the automotive sector, the company partners with customers across passenger vehicles, two-wheelers, commercial vehicles, and electric vehicle platforms through high-precision tooling solutions. Today, 95% of the tooling supplied to automotive customers is manufactured locally, reflecting the growing capabilities of India's domestic tooling ecosystem.

Government initiatives such as Make in India and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, coupled with a growing emphasis on supply chain resilience, are encouraging manufacturers to increase local sourcing and reduce dependence on imports. Godrej Enterprises Group's Tooling business supports customers through a wide range of solutions, including press tools, die-casting dies, and precision tooling systems, helping manufacturers achieve high levels of productivity, quality, and operational efficiency. Beyond automotive, the business also caters to sectors such as industrial machinery, railways, metro rail, and defence manufacturing, contributing to India's broader manufacturing ecosystem.

Mr. Pankaj Abhyankar, Business Head – Tooling, Godrej Enterprises Group, said, "India's automotive industry is evolving rapidly, driven by localisation, changing mobility technologies, and the need for greater manufacturing agility. As vehicle architectures become more advanced, tooling is playing an increasingly important role in enabling precision, productivity, quality, and faster product development cycles. Our focus remains on building advanced engineering and manufacturing capabilities that help customers meet these evolving requirements while supporting India's manufacturing ambitions."

To address emerging industry needs, the business is expanding its adoption of advanced technologies including digital simulations, additive manufacturing, IoT-enabled monitoring systems, and large-tonnage die capabilities. The company is also leveraging specialised manufacturing technologies such as vacuum-assisted systems, thermo-regulation technologies, squeeze casting, and conformal cooling solutions to meet evolving performance, productivity, and quality requirements.

The Indian tooling industry is expected to witness steady growth over the coming years, driven by investments in automotive manufacturing, electric mobility, infrastructure development, and defence production. As manufacturers continue to localise supply chains and introduce next-generation products, the need for precision-engineered tooling solutions is expected to grow across sectors.

With increasing investments across automotive, railways, metro infrastructure, defence manufacturing, and industrial engineering, Godrej Enterprises Group remains focused on strengthening indigenous tooling capabilities, advancing manufacturing excellence, and supporting India's emergence as a globally competitive manufacturing hub.

About Godrej Enterprises Group:

Since 1897, Godrej Enterprises Group (which includes Godrej & Boyce and its affiliates) has contributed significantly to India’s economic growth and self-reliance by providing complex engineering, design led innovation, and sustainable manufacturing solutions. From the world’s first patented springless lock, and safes to pioneering Indian made typewriters and refrigerators, the conglomerate has also paved the way for the growth of key sectors like aerospace, energy, and security.

Today, Godrej Enterprises Group, has presence across 5 continents with a market-leading presence across diverse consumer and industrial businesses spanning Aerospace, Aviation, Defence, Energy, Locks & Security Solutions, Green Building Consulting, Construction and EPC Services, Intralogistics, Tooling, Healthcare Equipment, Consumer Durables, Engines and Motors, Furniture, Architectural Fittings, IT Solutions and Vending Machines.

To learn more visit: https://www.godrejenterprises.com/

Experience Everyday Comfort With Voltas Water Heaters Across India

Whether it's a refreshing morning shower or a relaxing bath after a long day, having instant access to hot water is an everyday essential. Designed to deliver reliable performance, superior safety, and energy-efficient heating, the Voltas Water Heater range offers the perfect solution for modern Indian homes. Available in both Instant and Storage variants across multiple capacities, the range caters to the diverse needs of households of all sizes.

Engineered with Quartzline Technology, the water heaters feature an advanced micro-coated inner tank that delivers enhanced durability and is specially designed to withstand Indian water conditions. The 100% copper heating element ensures faster and more efficient heating, while high-density polyurethane insulation helps retain heat for longer, reducing energy consumption. Users can also customize the water temperature between 30°C and 75°C using the adjustable temperature controller, supported by a pre-calibrated thermostat for accurate temperature regulation.

Built with safety at its core, the storage range features a 6-level safety system, IPX4 water splash protection, 8-bar pressure resistance for high-rise buildings, and a multi-function safety valve for enhanced protection. Combined with a 5-star energy rating, the Voltas Water Heater range delivers dependable performance, energy efficiency, and lasting comfort for every home.

Available at: All Voltas authorised dealers, retail stores, leading consumer electronics outlets across India, and online.

Price: Starts at Rs. 3150 in Instant and Rs. 5550 in case of Storage Water Heaters. Voltas runs a Standard Free Installation in select markets.

Explore the range: Voltas Water Heaters      

Mysuru Couple Overcomes Severe Male Infertility To Welcome Baby Through Advanced IVF Treatment At Nova IVF Fertility

• Fertility specialists highlight that male-factor infertility contributes to nearly half of all infertility cases.

• Advanced techniques can help achieve pregnancy despite severe sperm abnormalities.

A Mysuru couple who struggled with infertility due to severe male-related infertility has successfully welcomed a healthy baby following advanced fertility treatment at Nova IVF Fertility, Mysuru. The case highlights how personalised treatment planning and advanced sperm retrieval techniques, can help couples achieve parenthood even in complex infertility cases.

Bhavya (25) and Girish (38) (names changed to protect privacy), who had been married for two years, approached Nova IVF Fertility after facing difficulties conceiving naturally. Detailed fertility investigations revealed a combination of male and female factors contributing to infertility. The male partner was diagnosed with severe Azoospermia, a condition characterised by zero sperm in semen. Further tests also revealed bilateral varicocele, a condition which causes enlargement or swelling of the veins on both sides of the testicles. This can also negatively affect sperm production and quality. The female partner was diagnosed with Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (earlier called PCOS) and faced irregular periods.

Dr. Prakash Savanur, Fertility Specialist, Nova IVF Fertility, Mysuru, said, “Severe male-factor infertility can significantly reduce the chances of natural conception, but advances in reproductive medicine now enable us to overcome many of these challenges. At Nova IVF Fertility, we recommended IVF only when medically indicated, and in some cases, it may be the most appropriate first-line of treatment for some cases and not treated as a last option. Much like cancer treatment is guided by the stage of the disease, and chemotherapy can be the recommended treatment at first. In the same way, fertility treatment is guided to the severity of infertility. In this case, despite the absence of sperm in the semen, advanced techniques such as TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) allowed us to retrieve sperm directly from the testes and create healthy embryos, giving the couple a strong chance of pregnancy. At Nova IVF Fertility, wherever medically feasible, we strive to help couples conceive using their own eggs and sperm. This case shows the importance of evaluating both partners early and demonstrates how advanced fertility treatments can help couples achieve biological parenthood even in cases of severe male infertility.”

Following a comprehensive fertility evaluation, the couple was advised to undergo Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), an advanced IVF procedure in which a single healthy sperm is injected directly into an egg. The couple achieved pregnancy in the first attempt and delivered a healthy baby. The rest of the embryos were frozen so that the couple can plan their second child using these frozen embryos, and do not have to go through egg retrieval again.

Fertility specialists at Nova IVF Fertility advise couples who are unable to conceive after one year of trying naturally to seek a timely fertility evaluation. Early diagnosis and personalised treatment can significantly improve the chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy, particularly in cases involving severe male-factor infertility.  

Dr. Bhargav Mallappa Congratulates Prahlad Joshi On His Appointment As Union Minister Of Education

* Expresses confidence in his leadership to further strengthen India's education ecosystem

Dr. Bhargav Mallappa, Chairman of the Akhila Samaj Sevak Sangh Council, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Shri Prahlad Joshi on his appointment as the Union Minister of Education, Government of India.

Congratulating Shri Joshi on assuming the responsibility of leading the Ministry of Education, Dr. Mallappa said the appointment comes at a crucial time as India continues to strengthen its education system through reforms, innovation, research, and skill development.

"Education is the cornerstone of nation-building. I extend my sincere congratulations to Shri Prahlad Joshi on his appointment as the Union Minister of Education. I am confident that under his leadership, the Ministry will continue to work towards improving the quality of education, promoting innovation, and creating greater opportunities for students across the country," Dr. Mallappa said.

He further expressed hope that the Ministry would continue to focus on inclusive education, academic excellence, and strengthening institutions to prepare India's youth for the opportunities and challenges of the future.

Dr. Mallappa wished Shri Prahlad Joshi a successful and impactful tenure and expressed confidence that his leadership would contribute significantly to the growth and transformation of India's education sector.

Turkish Airlines Signs Agreement With HAVELSAN For 12 Flight Simulators

Turkish Airlines, the airline that flies to more countries than any other airline, aiming to grow its fleet to over 800 aircraft by 2033 in line with its strategic growth targets, signed an agreement with HAVELSAN for the supply of a total of 12 new simulators, comprising 8 Full Flight Simulators (FFS) and 4 Flight Training Devices (FTD).

The agreement will support the expansion of training capacity at Turkish Airlines' simulator hangars, whose groundbreaking took place in January 2026 with the first phase planned to become operational in 2027, as well as at the new Flight Training Center, which is set to be completed in 2028.

Developed and manufactured entirely in Türkiye, the simulators will be integrated into Turkish Airlines' growing training infrastructure. This will support the development of advanced pilot training systems through domestic capabilities while making a significant contribution to strengthening competencies in the field of high technology.

Commenting on the agreement, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee Prof. Murat Şeker said: "With these new orders, by 2033 the Turkish Airlines Flight Training Center will become one of Europe's largest flight training centers across three campuses, meeting the needs of Turkish Airlines while also providing training services for other airlines. We would like to thank HAVELSAN for its valuable contributions to this goal and for helping strengthen Türkiye’s domestic aviation ecosystem through advanced homegrown technologies.”

HAVELSAN General Manager Dr. Mehmet Akif Nacar added: "This agreement marks an important milestone as it represents our entry into the wide-body flight simulation field. We thank our long-standing business partner, our country's flag-carrier Turkish Airlines for the trust it has placed in us, and we remain committed to our determination to provide high-quality, advanced technology-based simulation solutions in the field of pilot training."

Under the scope of the agreement, Turkish Airlines will take delivery of 8 Full Flight Simulators (FFS) and 4 Flight Training Devices (FTD). The airline is already actively using 3 Airbus A320NEO/CEO, 3 Boeing 737MAX, and 1 Boeing 737NG full flight simulators at its training centers, all manufactured by HAVELSAN and certified to EASA Level D standards. The new orders reflect the flag-carrier's confidence in HAVELSAN's simulator capabilities.

Turkish Airlines will continue to further advance its capabilities in pilot training with an advanced simulation infrastructure fully compliant with international civil aviation standards.