Dell Technologies released the results of its Global Data Protection Index (GDPI) that highlights the imperative need for a robust approach to understanding and mitigating emerging risks in multi-cloud environments. The survey was conducted with 1,500 IT and security decision makers from organizations around the world.

For enterprise IT and cybersecurity leaders, addressing the growing threat of cyberattacks, adapting to the rise of generative artificial intelligence (generative AI), and effectively managing multi-cloud environments are essential to business success.

“The report presents vital insights into the escalation of cyber attacks, the transformative impact of generative AI, and the complexity of ensuring data protection in multi-cloud environments. These are strategic challenges that CIOs must address with agility and vision”, highlighted Carlos Patiño, Senior Director of Data Protection at Dell Technologies.

Strategic challenges in data protection

Cyberattacks, according to the report, are at their highest point in more than five years, with 52% of organizations experiencing disruptions to data access. This increase not only represents a threat to business continuity, but also doubles the associated costs.

“The trade-off between prevention and recovery must be carefully balanced,” advises Emsley. Despite growing concern, 59% of organizations invest more in prevention, revealing the need for a comprehensive strategy to confront the evolution of threats.

Generative AI and the future of security

Generative AI, for the first time addressed in the GDPI, emerges as a transformative factor in the cybersecurity posture.

52% believe in its benefits, but 27% anticipate initial advantages for cybercriminals. Cybersecurity leaders must understand these dynamics and capitalize on opportunities to strengthen cybersecurity in the region.

Remote work and data exposure

The rise of remote work, fueled by the pandemic, has increased exposure to data loss according to 81% of organizations surveyed. This change in work dynamics requires a strategic adaptation to ensure safety without sacrificing productivity.

For cybersecurity leaders, adapting strategies to protect data in remote environments becomes imperative in a context where digital transformation accelerates.

Insurance policies and resilience

Ransomware insurance policies, used by 93% of organizations, pose strategic challenges. 85% of organizations had to pay to access their data, revealing specific challenges.

Cybersecurity leaders must consider these limitations when designing effective resilience strategies.

Proactive strengthening

Faced with these threats, organizations are taking proactive measures. 50% have incorporated professional services, 49% conduct periodic cyber recovery testing, and 42% have implemented cyber vaults. These strategies strengthen cyber resilience and resilience.

Challenges and opportunities of multicloud environments

Although multi-cloud environments remain strategic for application deployment, 79% of respondents are unsure of their ability to protect data in public clouds.

Confidence in data protection in these settings is essential, with more than 56% considering these capabilities crucial to operations.

In an ever-evolving digital landscape, the Dell Global Data Protection Index provides CIOs with a strategic compass to address current challenges and anticipate emerging trends.