Navigating the New Era of Cyber Threats
Kroll’s 2025 Global Business Sentiment Survey, released on June 13, 2025, highlights cybersecurity as a pressing concern for businesses worldwide. Drawing insights from 1,200 business leaders across more than 20 countries, the report reveals that approximately 75% of respondents experienced heightened anxiety about cybersecurity and privacy over the past year. Malware, flagged by nearly half of those surveyed, and data extortion, cited by over a third, dominate these fears. Against a backdrop of escalating global tensions, the findings emphasize the urgent need for organizations to strengthen their cybersecurity measures to counter increasingly sophisticated threats.
Compliance Challenges in a Regulatory Maze
The survey underscores a significant gap in organizational readiness to meet the demands of tightening global privacy and security regulations. As governments worldwide introduce stricter compliance requirements to combat rising cyber risks, many businesses remain unprepared. Kroll’s report reveals that among companies concerned about compliance, fewer than half have taken concrete steps such as increasing budgets, expanding teams, upskilling staff, or engaging external consultants. This inaction leaves organizations exposed to vulnerabilities, especially as cybercriminals exploit gaps in systems and processes to execute advanced attacks.
AI: A Double-Edged Sword for Cybersecurity
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming business operations, with 93% of surveyed leaders integrating AI, half of whom leverage it for cybersecurity and IT functions. However, Kroll’s findings highlight significant risks tied to this rapid adoption, particularly the absence of robust governance. A striking 63% of businesses using AI lack transparency or explainability measures, while 59% have no AI policies or employee guidance in place. This haphazard approach heightens vulnerabilities, as cybercriminals increasingly exploit AI-driven tools, such as deepfakes and automated phishing, to amplify their attacks.
A Volatile Landscape for Business Resilience
The interplay of cyber risks, AI-related threats, and regulatory pressures creates a challenging environment for business leaders. Kroll’s CEO, Jacob Silverman, describes this as a world marked by “volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity,” where cybersecurity is just one of many concerns. The survey also notes broader risks, including geopolitical instability and economic pressures like tariffs, which further complicate efforts to maintain resilience. To navigate this landscape, businesses must prioritize strategic risk management, invest in skilled teams, and establish clear AI governance to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Building a Resilient Future
Kroll’s 2025 Global Business Sentiment Survey offers a stark reminder of the cybersecurity challenges facing organizations today. To thrive in this era of heightened risk, businesses must move beyond reactive measures and embrace proactive strategies. This includes addressing compliance gaps, enhancing cyber defenses, and responsibly integrating AI through strong governance frameworks. By fostering a culture of vigilance and innovation, companies can transform these challenges into opportunities, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of 2025 and beyond.
SOURCE: https://www.cybersecuritydive.com/news/business-cyber-risks-concerns-ai-kroll/750672/
