71% of Pakistani businesses faced network security incidents in 2024

LAHORE: Network security was the primary concern for Pakistani businesses in 2024, with 71 per cent of companies experiencing attempted network intrusions. Forty-nine per cent reported incidents involving malicious code execution or attempts to control compromised systems.

According to the latest Kaspersky IT Security Economics report, even large enterprises with strong security measures faced a high rate of network security incidents. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) also grappled with network security challenges, with a considerable portion of incidents attributed to employee actions, both deliberate and unintentional.

Network security threats exploit system vulnerabilities to infiltrate company networks and compromise sensitive data, applications, and workloads. Cybercriminals leverage these weaknesses to gain unauthorized access and deploy malicious software like malware and spyware.

The increasing volume of electronically created, stored and transmitted data exacerbates the risk of cyberattacks. The evolving landscape of cyber threats, encompassing phishing scams, ransomware attacks, DDoS attacks, and advanced persistent threats (APTs), presents numerous avenues for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities.

The rise of remote work and bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies has further complicated network security. Employees accessing company data from diverse locations and devices increases the risk of security breaches. This, coupled with inadequate security protocols and employee training, creates a vulnerable environment for cyberattacks.

Human error significantly contributes to security incidents, with 31 per cent of Pakistani companies reporting incidents stemming from employee actions or inaction. Data breaches resulting from employee negligence can have severe consequences, including financial losses, reputational damage, and legal repercussions.