10 countries most vulnerable to cyber threats in 2024

Mexico ranks as least prepared

A new global study has revealed that Mexico is the most vulnerable country to cyber threats in 2024. The research, conducted by cybersecurity firm PSONO, ranks Mexico at the bottom of a list of 54 countries analysed for their readiness to handle data security risks. The study highlights significant weaknesses in the country’s digital infrastructure, public awareness, and cybersecurity workforce.

The study evaluated countries based on key factors such as their global cybersecurity index, the number of accounts exposed in data breaches, public searches for cybersecurity tips (like how to create strong passwords), the number of cybersecurity professionals, and each country’s Digital Competitiveness Ranking.

Mexico

Mexico scored the lowest on the Global Cybersecurity Index with a troubling 38.3, reflecting a lack of preparedness in protecting critical data against cyberattacks. The country also ranks poorly in public engagement, with only 356,200 searches for “How to Create a Strong Password,” pointing to widespread cybersecurity knowledge gaps. Adding to the concern, Mexico has just 341 cybersecurity professionals, a relatively small workforce to tackle the growing threats posed by cybercrime.

Egypt

Egypt is the second-least prepared country, following Mexico in the rankings. Egypt has a slightly higher cybersecurity index, at 50.8, but still faces challenges in cybersecurity workforce capacity, with only 247 professionals in the field. The country’s public engagement with cybersecurity remains low, evidenced by only 194,000 password-related searches.

New Zealand

In third place is New Zealand, a surprising entry despite its solid digital infrastructure, which boasts one of the highest Digital Competitiveness Rankings at 79.08. However, New Zealand faces a significant gap in its cybersecurity workforce, with only 153 professionals in the field. The country’s high number of searches for “How to Create a Strong Password” (74,200) indicates widespread concern about online security, but there is a lack of expertise to handle emerging threats.

Peru

Peru ranked fourth, shows a similar story. The country has a cybersecurity index of 55.9, but its public engagement remains underdeveloped, with just 28,300 searches for password tips. With 330 cybersecurity professionals, Peru has some capacity to respond to cyber incidents but still needs to focus on improving public awareness and expanding its workforce.

Argentina

Argentina ranks fifth, with a higher global cybersecurity index of 58.3. However, it faces challenges similar to those in Peru, with relatively low public engagement (73,400 searches for password security) and a limited number of cybersecurity experts—just 140 professionals. As cyber threats evolve, the shortage of skilled professionals may hinder the country’s ability to keep pace with rising risks.

Nigeria

Nigeria comes in sixth place, with its substantial population presenting challenges and opportunities for cybersecurity. Despite a higher Digital Competitiveness Ranking of 72.31, Nigeria’s cybersecurity workforce is minimal, with just 633 professionals. Public awareness is also lacking, with only 83,400 password-related searches signalling a need for more excellent public education and a larger pool of cybersecurity talent.

Kuwait

Kuwait ranks seventh with a global cybersecurity index of 59.1. However, it has the fewest cybersecurity professionals on the list, with just 24 individuals working in the field, making it highly vulnerable to potential attacks. Kuwait also has moderate public engagement, with 103.4 password-related searches per 100,000 people, which suggests some interest but not enough to address the growing digital risks.

Vietnam

In eighth place, Vietnam has one of the highest rates of public interest in cybersecurity, with 329.5 searches for password tips per 100,000 people. However, the country suffers from a severe shortage of cybersecurity professionals, with just 44 experts. This gap in expertise presents a critical vulnerability for the country as it faces an increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape.

Colombia

Colombia ranks ninth with 238.1 searches for password security per 100,000 people, indicating moderate public concern. Yet, the country faces a shortage of cybersecurity professionals, with only 319 cybersecurity experts to address the growing challenges of cybercrime.

Chile

Rounding out the list in tenth place, Chile performs relatively better regarding cybersecurity workforce availability, with 1.44 professionals per 100,000 people. However, its public engagement remains weak, with only 181.1 searches for password security per 100,000 people. Despite a decent Digital Competitiveness Ranking of 64.84, Chile still struggles with key cybersecurity challenges.

In response to the findings, a spokesperson for PSONO stressed the importance of taking proactive steps to address these vulnerabilities.

“With cyber threats on the rise globally, it’s crucial for both individuals and organisations to prioritise digital security. Simple steps like strengthening passwords, staying informed on the latest threats, and investing in cybersecurity expertise can make a significant difference in safeguarding sensitive data,” the spokesperson said.

As cyberattacks become increasingly sophisticated and widespread, countries worldwide must act swiftly to strengthen their cybersecurity frameworks and ensure their citizens and businesses are well-protected against the growing tide of digital threats.

Featured image: A cybersecurity event installation at GITEX Global, held in Dubai from October 14-18, 2024. Credit: Arnold Pinto

Last Updated on 1 month by Arnold Pinto