Cybersecurity in Ireland: A Wake-Up Call for Businesses
June 26, 2025, 6:56 pm
Location: United States, New York
Employees: 1001-5000
Founded date: 2011
Total raised: $100.75M
In the digital age, cybersecurity is not just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. Yet, a recent survey reveals a troubling trend among Irish businesses. Nearly six in ten companies in Ireland neglect regular software updates. Half of them skip automated data backups. This oversight is akin to leaving the front door wide open in a crime-ridden neighborhood.
The survey, conducted by Gallagher, a prominent insurance broker and risk management firm, involved 300 business decision-makers across the UK and Ireland. Among them, 100 were from Ireland. The findings paint a stark picture of the cybersecurity landscape. While 92% of Irish businesses believe they are adequately protected against cyber threats, the reality tells a different story. There’s a significant disconnect between perception and reality.
Regular software updates are the first line of defense. They patch vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit. Yet, only 43% of Irish businesses adhere to this basic yet crucial practice. It’s like ignoring a leaky roof until the rain pours in. Automated data backups are equally vital. They safeguard against data loss from ransomware attacks, hardware failures, and accidental deletions. However, only half of the surveyed businesses perform regular automated backups.
The survey also revealed that 49% of Irish firms conduct regular automated backups, while 48% utilize multi-factor authentication for remote access applications. A mere 43% perform regular software updates. These numbers are concerning. They indicate a lack of proactive measures against cyber threats.
Training is another critical aspect of cybersecurity. Only 39% of Irish organizations provide cybersecurity training to their staff. This is a glaring oversight. Employees are often the first line of defense against cyberattacks. Without proper training, they may unwittingly open the door to cybercriminals.
The survey highlighted that 64% of Irish businesses feel “very protected” against cyberattacks. Another 28% consider themselves “quite protected.” However, the sectors that feel the least secure include professional services, healthcare, IT, and financial services. In contrast, industries like agriculture, construction, and retail report feeling more secure.
Geographically, businesses in Munster feel the most protected, with 100% of respondents indicating confidence against cyber threats. Ulster follows closely at 94%, while Dublin firms report 92% feeling secure. However, Connacht businesses lag behind, with only 89% expressing confidence.
The survey’s findings reveal a troubling trend: businesses that feel secure are often the least prepared. This false sense of security can lead to catastrophic consequences. Cybercrime is not a niche threat; it’s a persistent, evolving danger.
The gap between perception and reality is alarming. Businesses must take proactive steps to protect themselves. Regular software updates and automated backups are essential. Training employees on cybersecurity is not just beneficial; it’s critical.
The statistics are sobering. In the UK, 71% of businesses conduct regular software updates, compared to only 43% in Ireland. Similarly, 57% of UK firms train all staff on cybersecurity, while only 39% of Irish businesses do the same. This disparity highlights a pressing need for Irish companies to step up their game.
Cybersecurity is not just an IT issue; it’s a business imperative. Companies must prioritize their cybersecurity strategies. They need to invest in training, tools, and processes that protect their data and reputation.
The consequences of neglecting cybersecurity can be dire. Data breaches can lead to financial losses, legal repercussions, and damage to a company’s reputation. In a world where data is currency, protecting it should be a top priority.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, so must the strategies to combat them. Businesses must adopt a proactive approach. This means not only implementing security measures but also fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness.
In conclusion, the findings from Gallagher’s survey serve as a wake-up call for Irish businesses. The digital landscape is fraught with dangers. Ignoring cybersecurity is akin to playing with fire. Companies must take immediate action to protect themselves. Regular software updates, automated backups, and employee training are not optional; they are essential. The time to act is now. Cybersecurity is not just a checkbox; it’s a commitment to safeguarding the future.
The survey, conducted by Gallagher, a prominent insurance broker and risk management firm, involved 300 business decision-makers across the UK and Ireland. Among them, 100 were from Ireland. The findings paint a stark picture of the cybersecurity landscape. While 92% of Irish businesses believe they are adequately protected against cyber threats, the reality tells a different story. There’s a significant disconnect between perception and reality.
Regular software updates are the first line of defense. They patch vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit. Yet, only 43% of Irish businesses adhere to this basic yet crucial practice. It’s like ignoring a leaky roof until the rain pours in. Automated data backups are equally vital. They safeguard against data loss from ransomware attacks, hardware failures, and accidental deletions. However, only half of the surveyed businesses perform regular automated backups.
The survey also revealed that 49% of Irish firms conduct regular automated backups, while 48% utilize multi-factor authentication for remote access applications. A mere 43% perform regular software updates. These numbers are concerning. They indicate a lack of proactive measures against cyber threats.
Training is another critical aspect of cybersecurity. Only 39% of Irish organizations provide cybersecurity training to their staff. This is a glaring oversight. Employees are often the first line of defense against cyberattacks. Without proper training, they may unwittingly open the door to cybercriminals.
The survey highlighted that 64% of Irish businesses feel “very protected” against cyberattacks. Another 28% consider themselves “quite protected.” However, the sectors that feel the least secure include professional services, healthcare, IT, and financial services. In contrast, industries like agriculture, construction, and retail report feeling more secure.
Geographically, businesses in Munster feel the most protected, with 100% of respondents indicating confidence against cyber threats. Ulster follows closely at 94%, while Dublin firms report 92% feeling secure. However, Connacht businesses lag behind, with only 89% expressing confidence.
The survey’s findings reveal a troubling trend: businesses that feel secure are often the least prepared. This false sense of security can lead to catastrophic consequences. Cybercrime is not a niche threat; it’s a persistent, evolving danger.
The gap between perception and reality is alarming. Businesses must take proactive steps to protect themselves. Regular software updates and automated backups are essential. Training employees on cybersecurity is not just beneficial; it’s critical.
The statistics are sobering. In the UK, 71% of businesses conduct regular software updates, compared to only 43% in Ireland. Similarly, 57% of UK firms train all staff on cybersecurity, while only 39% of Irish businesses do the same. This disparity highlights a pressing need for Irish companies to step up their game.
Cybersecurity is not just an IT issue; it’s a business imperative. Companies must prioritize their cybersecurity strategies. They need to invest in training, tools, and processes that protect their data and reputation.
The consequences of neglecting cybersecurity can be dire. Data breaches can lead to financial losses, legal repercussions, and damage to a company’s reputation. In a world where data is currency, protecting it should be a top priority.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, so must the strategies to combat them. Businesses must adopt a proactive approach. This means not only implementing security measures but also fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness.
In conclusion, the findings from Gallagher’s survey serve as a wake-up call for Irish businesses. The digital landscape is fraught with dangers. Ignoring cybersecurity is akin to playing with fire. Companies must take immediate action to protect themselves. Regular software updates, automated backups, and employee training are not optional; they are essential. The time to act is now. Cybersecurity is not just a checkbox; it’s a commitment to safeguarding the future.