73% of Companies Unprepared for Cyber Attacks

A recent survey by Vanson Bourne has revealed that 73% of the organizations surveyed indicate they are not fully prepared for a major cyber attack. The study, conducted in January 2026 among 600 senior IT security decision-makers, highlights the challenges companies face in improving their security measures. Although the majority of organizations have incident response plans, security tools, and technical teams in place, there is often a lack of necessary coordination and transparency. These factors are crucial for effectively responding in the event of a serious cyber attack. The survey shows that many companies struggle to align their security strategies with business objectives.

The study emphasizes that 56% of respondents state their incident response plans have not been adequately tested. This could significantly impair responsiveness in an emergency. Another critical point is the lack of visibility over their own security measures, leading to insufficient risk assessment. Another finding from the survey indicates that 62% of companies have difficulty aligning their security measures with the requirements of management. This discrepancy can result in important security investments not being prioritized, weakening the overall security posture of the organization.

The survey also highlights that 47% of companies lack the necessary resources to effectively implement their security strategies. This includes both financial resources and qualified personnel. Recruiting and retaining cybersecurity professionals remains a significant challenge for many organizations. Another aspect addressed in the study is the need to improve employee training. 68% of respondents indicated that their employees are not adequately prepared for cyber threats.

This increases the risk of phishing attacks and other forms of cybercrime, which are often exacerbated by human error. The survey also shows that 59% of companies plan to revise their security strategies in the next 12 months. This may be a response to the increasing threat of cyber attacks that have risen in recent years. The need to adapt to ever-changing threats is seen as critical for future security. The results of the study shed light on the challenges many companies face and underscore the urgency of improving security measures. Experts recommend that companies conduct regular security reviews and continuously update their incident response plans to respond to new threats. The Vanson Bourne survey was conducted in January 2026 and includes 600 senior IT security decision-makers from various industries.