ESET Survey: 30% of Businesses Fear AI Malware, Phishing Remains Top Threat
An ESET survey indicates 30% of businesses fear AI malware, though phishing remains the primary threat, causing 27% of breaches. While AI improves phishing sophistication, experts urge focusing on basic cybersecurity like staff training and system patching. The survey covered 4,400 organizations in 13 countries.
A recent ESET survey reveals that almost a third of businesses are concerned about AI-powered malware impacting their operations in the next year. Generative AI was perceived as the top threat, despite ESET data showing no significant link between generative AI and security breaches.
Nearly two-thirds of businesses anticipate a cyber attack in the coming year, with 44 per cent having experienced one in the past 12 months. Phishing accounted for 27 per cent of security breaches, making it the most common cause, followed by unpatched software and weak passwords.
ESET cybersecurity specialist George Foley noted that while AI enhances phishing by creating convincing emails, the fundamental threat remains the same. He advised businesses to focus on basic cybersecurity: staff training to identify fraudulent invoices, system patching, and strong password practices. The survey also found 71 per cent of businesses use AI tools, but only 57 per cent have usage policies, leading to «shadow AI» risks.
The survey included 4,400 organizations across 13 countries.