21st November 2024 – (Hong Kong) A recent investigation by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data has revealed that Hong Kong enterprises are inadequately prepared for cybersecurity threats, achieving a score of just 52.8 out of 100 on the cybersecurity readiness index. This marks a modest year-on-year increase of 5.8 points but still categorises local businesses as possessing only “basic measures.”
The survey, conducted between September and October by the Hong Kong Productivity Council, involved telephone interviews with 442 companies. Notably, while awareness of cybersecurity among employees improved—recording an index score of 30.9—this remains at the second level of preparedness, described as “inconsistent measures.” Alarmingly, only about one-third of the surveyed companies provide cybersecurity awareness training for their staff, and merely a quarter engage in practical exercises to strengthen their defences.
The investigation also explored the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) within these businesses. Approximately 20% reported utilising AI in their operations, with 65% implementing at least one form of data security measure. However, a concerning 14% of companies have adopted protections specifically designed to counter machine learning attacks.