HCLTech’s Global Cyber Resilience Study 2024-25: Insights into Cybersecurity Readiness

In an era where digital transformation is accelerating, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical concern for organizations worldwide. HCLTech’s recently released Global Cyber Resilience Study 2024-25 sheds light on the strategic priorities that businesses must adopt to bolster their cybersecurity readiness and resilience. This comprehensive report draws insights from over 1,500 leaders across various industries in North America, Europe, and Australia and New Zealand, providing a panoramic view of the current cybersecurity landscape.

The Growing Threat Landscape

The findings of the study reveal a stark reality: 81% of security leaders anticipate a cyberattack on their organizations within the next 12 months. This statistic underscores the pervasive fear that organizations face in today’s digital environment. However, a concerning gap exists between expectation and preparedness, as only 48% believe they can effectively prevent such attacks. This disparity highlights the urgent need for organizations to reassess their cybersecurity strategies and invest in more robust defenses.

A particularly alarming trend identified in the report is the rise of AI-generated attacks, which 54% of security leaders cite as the most significant security risk. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, so too do the tactics employed by cybercriminals, making it imperative for organizations to stay ahead of these threats.

Challenges in Recovery

The aftermath of a cyberattack can be devastating, and the study reveals that 76% of security leaders faced high to moderate challenges in fully resuming business operations following an incident. This statistic emphasizes the importance of not only preventing attacks but also having effective recovery strategies in place. Organizations must develop comprehensive plans that encompass prevention, response, and recovery to mitigate the impact of cyber incidents.

Strategic Priorities for Cyber Resilience

Jagadeshwar Gattu, President of Digital Foundation Services at HCLTech, emphasizes that building a strong digital foundation requires robust capabilities against cyberattacks. He advocates for a strategy centered on comprehensive resilience, which includes investing in cyber resilience solutions, implementing zero-trust controls, and leveraging AI-assisted automation. Gattu’s insights reflect a growing recognition that cybersecurity is not merely a technical issue but a strategic imperative that can drive operational efficiency.

Regional Insights and Investment Trends

The study also highlights regional differences in cybersecurity challenges. North America reported the highest incidence of attacks, with 64% of surveyed leaders indicating their organizations had been targeted. This was followed by 57% in Europe and 51% in Australia and New Zealand. In response to these escalating threats, 63% of security leaders plan to increase their cybersecurity investments over the next year.

The report identifies improving compliance and risk management as the top priority for 84% of respondents, closely followed by investments in Security Operations Center (SOC) automation (76%) and incident response and recovery capabilities (75%). These priorities reflect a clear focus on enhancing both proactive and reactive cybersecurity measures.

The Expertise Gap

Despite the recognition of cybersecurity’s importance, the study reveals a significant gap in confidence regarding in-house expertise. Only 35% of security leaders feel confident in their ability to manage cybersecurity risks internally, prompting 90% to rely on external sourcing to bolster their capabilities. This reliance on external expertise underscores the complexity of the cybersecurity landscape and the need for organizations to seek specialized knowledge.

Moreover, the report indicates that only 37% of security leaders feel effective in communicating their organization’s IT security posture to the board and C-suite. This communication gap highlights the necessity for cybersecurity leaders to bridge the divide between technical teams and executive management, ensuring that cybersecurity is viewed as a strategic capability rather than a mere technical function.

The Role of Automation and AI

Amit Jain, EVP and Global Head of Cybersecurity Services at HCLTech, stresses the importance of automation and AI in managing evolving cyber threats. He notes that CISOs and Chief Risk Officers must act as a bridge between the board and technology/business teams, facilitating real-time risk governance and control execution. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the effective implementation of a cyber strategy increasingly relies on advanced technologies that can enhance visibility and preparedness.

Conclusion

HCLTech’s Global Cyber Resilience Study 2024-25 serves as a crucial resource for organizations seeking to navigate the complex cybersecurity landscape. With a clear understanding of the current threats, challenges, and strategic priorities, businesses can better prepare themselves to face the inevitable cyberattacks of the future. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, investing in comprehensive resilience strategies, fostering effective communication, and leveraging advanced technologies will be essential for organizations aiming to safeguard their operations and maintain stakeholder trust.