2 in 3 Irish businesses to increase investment in cybersecurity according to Dell Technologies survey

A new survey undertaken by Dell Technologies in association with the Executive Institute found that two-thirds (66%) of businesses in Ireland are planning to invest in their cybersecurity as cyber threats continue to increase. Moreover, 93% of organisations have already taken steps to enhance their data protection measures in the past twelve months.

The latest ‘Digital Pulse Survey’ from Dell and the Executive Institute of over 150 business leaders shows that Irish businesses are struggling under the weight of increasing cyber-attacks. The majority of respondents (64%) say that the ever-growing number of attacks is the main barrier to enhancing their organisation’s cyber resilience, with 13% citing a lack of in-house cyber skills and expertise and 9% citing outdated technology and upfront investment in cybersecurity solutions.

Highlighting the cyber dangers posed by hybrid working, 68% of businesses have already taken steps to mitigate the cyber risks of flexible and remote working models.

The Digital Pulse Survey also reveals that Irish businesses are increasingly turning to technology to help them achieve their sustainability goals. Over 8 in 10 business leaders (84%) say that technology has positively impacted their sustainability goals to date. Over one-third (37%) are using technology to increase energy efficiency, 24% are using it to facilitate hybrid or remote working, and 20% are using technology to help reduce carbon emissions.

In addition, almost half (49%) of Irish business leaders say they are considering replacing outdated technology in the next 12 months to reduce higher energy costs.

Commenting on the survey results, Catherine Doyle, Managing Director, Dell Technologies Ireland, said: “It’s clear that cyber risk continues to weigh heavily on business leaders as they advance their digital transformation plans. The vast majority have taken steps to enhance their data protection, and two-thirds are looking to increase this investment in the year ahead. Proactive and timely action will be vital to strengthening cyber defences.

“As businesses work to enhance their cyber resilience, it’s also positive to see the role of technology in driving sustainable innovation. From using technology to increase energy efficiency and facilitate remote working to achieving operational efficiency, digital transformation can help leaders shape a more sustainable future.”

Conor Morris, Managing Director, Executive Institute, said: “The results of the survey suggests that the threat posed by cyber-attacks continues to grow and threatens the future success of our member organisations. These attacks are becoming more frequent and more sophisticated. Planning for and adopting a security strategy that remains current and as up-to-date as new cyber threats themselves will be a key factor going forward.”