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Cybercrime Surge Slams Italian Firms, AI Emerges as Key Defense
19 Aug
Summary
- Cybercrime incidents against Italian businesses up 45.5% in 4 years
- Tuscany, Veneto, Marche among regions hit hardest by cyber attacks
- 83.1% of Italian firms prioritize cybersecurity, exceeding EU average
According to a recent report by the Italian small business group Confartigianato, cybercrime incidents against Italian companies have skyrocketed by 45.5% over the past 4 years, far outpacing the 10% increase in all crimes against businesses. This alarming trend has impacted businesses of all sizes, from multinationals to small enterprises.
The regions most affected by this cyber onslaught include Tuscany, where cybercrime incidents have risen by 88.3%, followed by Veneto (+63.7%), Marche (+56%), Puglia (+54.7%), and Lazio (+53.2%). In response, Italian firms are taking proactive measures, with 83.1% placing a high priority on cybersecurity, exceeding the European Union average of 71.1%.
By 2024, 42.6% of Italian businesses are expected to have invested in cybersecurity, including the adoption of artificial intelligence tools to bolster their defenses. However, the lack of specialized cybersecurity personnel remains a significant challenge, with 22.8% of Italian companies reporting difficulty finding qualified candidates, compared to the European average of 12%.
Confartigianato President Marco Granelli emphasizes the urgent need for effective digital security regulations and incentives to support investments in protecting corporate data. As digitalization continues to transform the business landscape, cybersecurity must be considered a fundamental pillar of innovation and economic growth.
