Only One-Third of EU Businesses Consider Themselves Prepared for Cyber Threats

Eurostat conducted a comprehensive study on the cybersecurity preparedness of European Union businesses with at least 10 employees. One in five surveyed companies had already experienced a security incident, yet only 37% reported having security documentation. However, the number of cyberattacks continues to rise, making it essential for EU businesses—including those in Hungary—to take timely action.

In 2022, 92% of EU businesses with at least 10 employees implemented some form of measure to protect their data and secure their information and communication technology (ICT) systems, according to Eurostat. The most commonly used security measure was strong password authentication, applied by 82% of businesses. This was followed by data backups stored separately or in the cloud (78%) and network access control (65%). The least commonly adopted method was biometric user authentication, used regularly by only 13% of surveyed companies.

To maintain operational efficiency, it is crucial to regularly update security measures to ensure businesses remain prepared for evolving cyber threats. In 2022, 37% of EU businesses reported having documentation related to their ICT security measures. Hungary was slightly below average, with only 33% of companies confirming they had such documentation. Sweden had the most security-conscious businesses, with nearly two-thirds (66%) reporting cybersecurity documentation and some level of protection. In contrast, only 18% of businesses in Greece had such measures in place.

In 2021, one in five EU businesses (22%) experienced security incidents that resulted in ICT service outages, data loss or corruption, or the exposure of confidential information. The study also identified the most vulnerable industries. Nearly one-third of businesses in the professional, scientific, and technical services sectors, as well as those in the information and communication industries, reported ICT security incidents. In the construction, transportation, and warehousing sectors, almost one in five companies was affected.

In 2022, only 25% of EU businesses stated they had insurance coverage against ICT security incidents. Denmark had the highest rate, with 71% of businesses insured. In contrast, Hungary and Lithuania had only 5% coverage, while Bulgaria ranked last with just 4% of companies insured.

The study results clearly show that there is still significant work to be done in improving cybersecurity across European businesses. ViVeTech’s experts provide cutting-edge solutions to help clients build reliable security systems against online threats, ultimately enhancing their competitiveness.

Source: Eurostat

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