end-point
ANALYSIS
Cybersecurity as a catalyst for business modernisation
Despite the challenges posed by the growing threat of cyberattacks , there is a positive shift in how business leaders are approaching cybersecurity . Our research shows that 74 % of respondents expect the proportion of their IT budget dedicated to cybersecurity to rise over the next year . This is a positive sign , as organisations need to prepare for the increased volume of incidents they predict in the year ahead . For most , protecting their networks remains the number one investment area , with nearly 22 % of the budget allocated to this pillar on average .
This evolving perspective is encouraging , as it suggests organisations are recognising the strategic value of strong cybersecurity measures . It highlights a recognition that robust defences can offer more than just protection – driving innovation , streamlining operations and enhancing overall efficiency , as well as offering opportunities for operational improvements and data protection . This forward-thinking approach turns cybersecurity from a defensive necessity into a strategic advantage .
By embedding cybersecurity into top-level decisionmaking rather than treating it as an afterthought , businesses are positioning themselves to thrive in an increasingly digital world .
The need for proactive cybersecurity measures
Every company , regardless of its industry , must recognise the evolving threat landscape and take proactive steps to mitigate the risks .
But while the financial services and IT sectors are more prepared for such an incident , others are lagging behind . Media and telecoms and transport , construction and real estate sectors are least prepared , given that they have experienced fewer incidents . The lower frequency of incidents in healthcare ( 49 %) is counterintuitive – the industry tends to be a highly targeted sector because it often suffers from a lack of investment and because systems hold vast amounts of sensitive patient data . Given the sensitive nature of the data handled in healthcare , a significant cyberattack could have devastating consequences . And as cyberthreats become more sophisticated and frequent , hope is not a strategy .
Just because businesses have been lucky enough to avoid an attack so far , it doesn ’ t make them immune in the future . And the industries that have yet to face a cyberattack are worryingly underprepared .
In an era where digital risks are evolving rapidly , businesses must invest not just in advanced technologies but in fostering a culture where cybersecurity is treated as a strategic priority . Simplified , consolidated solutions are key , but without the right mindset and a commitment to continuous improvement across the whole organisation , they will fall short .
Every company , regardless of its industry , must recognise the evolving threat landscape and take proactive steps to mitigate the risks . It ’ s time for every business to acknowledge that preparedness is more than just a checklist ; it ’ s a mission-critical element of modern business strategy . Instead of being a reactive measure dusted off after a breach occurs , cybersecurity should be considered a proactive , central part of every organisation ’ s future-proofing plan . Businesses in the Middle East & Türkiye are waking up to the reality of cyberthreats – now they must ensure they are ready to face them head-on .
74 WWW . INTELLIGENTCISO . COM