Rising cybersecurity threats in Cyprus
According to the Cyprus Digital Security Authority, 53% of businesses and 33% of citizens in Cyprus experienced cyberattacks over the past year. The average financial impact was €12,000 for companies and €141 for individual victims, highlighting growing cybersecurity challenges.
Business cyberattacks and costs
The authority conducted two nationwide surveys: one covering 459 businesses from the industrial, commercial, and service sectors (September–November 2025), and another involving 1,043 citizens (August–September 2025).
Among affected companies, 51% reported financial losses averaging €12,000. Phishing attacks remained the most common form, accounting for 44% of incidents and representing the latest attack for 75% of businesses. Nearly one in four companies had not updated their cybersecurity policies for over a year, while only 22% participated in training programmes.
The report also noted that 48% of businesses that did not experience attacks believed they were not targeted, an increase from previous years.
Cybersecurity situation among citizens
For citizens, 33% reported being targeted by cyberattacks, averaging 25.9 attacks per year. Financial losses affected 17% of victims, primarily those aged 35–44. Phishing remained the top threat at 22%. Awareness of cybersecurity training remains low, with 74% unaware of available seminars and just 15% participating in educational programmes. Key measures adopted by those trained include using strong passwords, regularly updating them, and avoiding suspicious websites.
Future actions and awareness campaigns
The Digital Security Authority plans to enhance cybersecurity awareness and education for both businesses and citizens. Initiatives include:
- Conferences and updates in cooperation with ENISA and the European Cybersecurity Competence Centre
- Joint events with the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce (CCCI) and Employers & Industrialists Federation (OEB)
- “Cybersecurity For All” Festival and Cybersecurity Career Fair
- Targeted education for seniors and school-based training across all levels
These surveys mark the fourth national mapping of cybersecurity in Cyprus and will continue annually, adapting to evolving digital risks and information needs.
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