IDC Study: Cloud Security Rises as Top Corporate Concern

Munich – Cloud security has emerged as the foremost strategic priority for companies in German-speaking markets, as revealed by a recent IDC study commissioned by secunet Security Networks AG.

The research indicates that 34% of businesses identify cloud security as their primary strategic cybersecurity concern for 2022 and 2023. Following closely are secure backups and disaster recovery (20%), data security (19%), security awareness training (15%), and identity and access management (14%).

Companies are also grappling with increasing complexity in their security infrastructures. Nearly two-thirds of respondents reported that their security landscapes have become more complex over the past twelve months, with 69% anticipating further escalation in the coming year. Key challenges cited include security complexity (24%), data protection (21%), ransomware attacks (19%), the cybersecurity skills shortage (18%), and the security of networked environments (16%).

Notably, digital sovereignty has gained significant importance for three out of four companies, influenced by the current economic and political climate. Businesses perceive benefits such as self-determined digital transformation and enhanced trust from customers and partners. However, challenges in achieving digital sovereignty include protecting and gaining visibility of data in clouds, the cost of evaluating new technologies, and the need for expertise in cloud contracts and compliance.

Ransomware attacks continue to be a pervasive threat, with 72% of companies in the region having been affected. Half of the respondents expect attack frequency to increase further. Frank Sauber, Global Head of Sales & Business Enablement at secunet, emphasized the necessity for companies to adapt to technological innovations and embrace digital sovereignty to maintain competitiveness and bolster defenses against cyber threats.