Sweden tops global rankings for cybersecurity preparedness in 2024

54 countries analysed

A new study by cybersecurity research firm Psono has revealed that Sweden is the most prepared country to face data security threats in 2024, ranking highest on the global cybersecurity index.

Sweden achieved an impressive composite score of 98.6, mainly due to its robust cybersecurity infrastructure, public awareness, and many cybersecurity professionals. This marks the Scandinavian nation as a global leader in safeguarding digital assets.

The research analysed the preparedness of 54 countries, evaluating factors such as the global cybersecurity index, the number of accounts exposed in data breaches, the volume of searches for “How to Create a Strong Password” per 100,000 people, the number of cybersecurity professionals, and each nation’s Digital Competitiveness Ranking.

The study used a weighted composite score, with the global cybersecurity index contributing 80% to the final ranking. Other factors, including vulnerability, public awareness, human resources, and digital adaptability, comprised the remaining 20%.

1 Sweden

Sweden’s high ranking was driven by its robust cybersecurity policies and significant public interest in securing digital identities. The country recorded 62,100 searches for “How to Create a Strong Password,” reflecting an engaged populace keen on safeguarding their online presence. Moreover, Sweden boasts 144 cybersecurity professionals per 100,000 people, highlighting its solid foundation of skilled workers dedicated to tackling emerging threats.

2 Singapore

Singapore, which ranked second with a score of 90.5, stands out despite its smaller population. The island has one of the highest densities of cybersecurity professionals, with seven experts per 100,000 people, emphasising its commitment to cybersecurity. The public also engages considerably with over 43,600 searches for strong password guidance. Singapore’s emphasis on cybersecurity is further supported by its high Digital Competitiveness Ranking, solidifying its position as a digital leader.

3 Germany

Germany, taking third place with a score of 86.7, displayed extraordinary public interest in cybersecurity. The country recorded more than 4.4 million searches for password-related queries, the highest of any nation in the study. Although Germany has fewer cybersecurity professionals per capita, its significant public awareness efforts—evidenced by these high search volumes—make it a formidable player in the global fight against cyber threats.

4 Denmark

Denmark follows closely in fourth position with a composite score of 83.5. The country enjoys a robust digital infrastructure and high public engagement in cybersecurity, with over 212,000 searches for password-related advice. While Denmark has fewer cybersecurity professionals per capita than some top-ranking countries, its proactive policies and digital resilience help it remain well-prepared for cyber threats.

5 Czech Republic

In fifth place, the Czech Republic has made impressive strides in cybersecurity, earning a score of 79.7. The country is increasingly recognised for its robust cybersecurity practices, with a healthy number of cybersecurity professionals (138 per 100,000 people) and a growing public awareness of data security.

6 Kenya

Kenya, with a score of 68.1, ranks sixth despite boasting a high cybersecurity index of 98.6. However, public engagement remains an area for improvement, as evidenced by just 56 searches for password-related tips. Kenya’s cybersecurity workforce is also developing but still faces challenges in building its infrastructure and public awareness.

7 Malayasia

Malaysia, which secured seventh place with a score of 55.4, also demonstrates a relatively high cybersecurity index, but its public interest and workforce density remain lacking. The country has room for growth in awareness and professional support to address future cybersecurity challenges fully.

8 Greece

Despite Greece’s high global cybersecurity index score of 99.6, it ranks eighth with a composite score of 50.3. The country’s limited number of cybersecurity professionals per capita and moderate public engagement in securing digital assets highlight areas that need attention.

9 Finland

Finland has one of the highest densities of cybersecurity professionals, ranking ninth. However, its cybersecurity index score of 96.1 places it slightly behind other top-ranking countries, resulting in a composite score of 48.9. While Finland’s public interest in cybersecurity remains strong, with over 1,500 searches for password tips, it needs to enhance its overall digital security infrastructure to match its human resources.

10 Portugal

Portugal rounds out the top ten with a score of 41.3. Despite having a relatively high number of cybersecurity professionals, public engagement in cybersecurity remains limited, as evidenced by fewer searches for password security. This indicates a need for more outstanding public education alongside existing infrastructure improvements.

A spokesperson for Psono noted: “Countries with a higher density of cybersecurity professionals and robust public engagement in practices like creating secure passwords are better positioned to handle emerging threats.

“Regular updates to security practices, such as using strong, unique passwords and ensuring both individuals and businesses have access to the right cybersecurity expertise, are essential for data safety.”Top of Form

Hero image: The Psono study used a weighted composite score, with the global cybersecurity index contributing 80% to the final ranking. Credit: Dan Nelson

Last Updated on 2 weeks by Arnold Pinto