Dublin, Ireland—HLB Ireland has released its 2024 Cybersecurity Report, shedding light on the increasing concerns of Irish businesses amid a growing cyber threat landscape. The findings underscore the urgency for enterprises to prioritise robust security frameworks and enhance their resilience in the face of evolving risks.

 Key findings from the report include:

• 86% of those surveyed expressed heightened concern over cybersecurity threats.

• 39% of companies report increased attacks, with 29% indicating that the impacts have become more severe.

• Nearly two-thirds of businesses consider cybersecurity a major strategic priority, with discussions frequently occurring at senior leadership levels.

• 24% of organisations have implemented ongoing cybersecurity awareness training programmes, an increase from 20% in the previous year.

• Only one-third of firms describe themselves as "very confident" in recoveringquickly from a cyber-attack.

• Despite the rapid pace of AI advancements, only 29% of companies have implemented the necessary security and governance controls to manage emerging AI risks.

Managing Partner at HLB Ireland, Mark Butler, commented, "The cybersecurity landscape is increasingly complex, and Irish businesses must adopt a strategic approach to safeguarding their operations. While many organisations are making strides in addressing cybersecurity, there remains a critical need to build confidence in recovery capabilities. Being prepared means more than just withstanding an attack; it’s about ensuring swift and effective recovery to maintain business continuity."

He further added, "AI represents both an opportunity and a challenge. The fact that only 29% of firms have implemented additional controls around AI underscores a significant gap in managing the risks associated with these technologies. Businesses must stay ahead of these advancements to ensure that innovation does not come at the expense of security.” 

HLB Ireland's report calls for a proactive stance towards cybersecurity, encouraging businesses to continually assess their readiness and invest in ongoing training and advanced security measures. The emphasis is on building resilience to not only survive but thrive in a rapidly changing digital environment.

For more information or to request a copy of the full report, please see https://www.hlb.ie/hlb-cyber-security-report-2024/ 

About HLB Ireland

HLB Ireland is a leading provider of audit, tax, and advisory services dedicated to helping businesses navigate today's complex challenges. With a strong focus on cybersecurity, the firm empowers Irish businesses to stay resilient and secure in an increasingly digital world.