Enterprises around the globe are facing a growing threat of data breaches due to compliance failings, according to a new report from Thales. The study, which surveyed nearly 3,000 IT and security professionals, revealed that 43 percent of enterprises failed a compliance audit last year, making them 10 times more likely to experience a data breach.
Security threats are on the rise, with 93 percent of IT professionals stating that the volume and severity of threats are increasing. Ransomware attacks have surged by over 27 percent in the past year, yet less than half of organizations have a formal plan in place to combat these attacks, with some resorting to paying ransom demands.
Malware is identified as the fastest-growing threat of 2024, with 41 percent of enterprises reporting a malware attack in the last year. Phishing and ransomware are also significant threats, with cloud assets being the primary targets for such attacks.
Sebastien Cano, senior vice president at Thales Cloud Protection and Licensing emphasized the importance of compliance in strengthening cyber defenses and building trust with customers. Companies that prioritize compliance processes and pass audits are less likely to suffer a breach, highlighting the crucial link between compliance and security.
Looking ahead, IT and security professionals are particularly concerned about emerging technologies, with AI, IoT, and post-quantum cryptography topping the list. Many enterprises are looking to integrate generative AI into their security products and services in the next 12 months, showcasing a proactive approach to leveraging new technologies for enhanced security measures.
In conclusion, the report underscores the critical need for enterprises to prioritize compliance measures to mitigate the risk of data breaches and reinforce their cybersecurity posture in an ever-evolving threat landscape.
