Executive protection has traditionally been a physical security priority. However, business executives can be targeted by cyberattacks as well, opening up their organizations to cyber risk.

Cybersecurity threats to business executives

The "Quantifying the Business Need for Digital Executive Protection" report from BlackCloak revealed the state of cybersecurity on executive devices. The report surveyed over 1,000 executives at Fortune 1000 companies about the cyber defense practices in place in their personal networks.

When analyzing the personal networks and devices of leadership, the researchers found that 76% of executives' personal devices actively leak data. In addition, 87% of the personal devices have no security installed, according to the report. The report identified that 27% of executives' personal devices contain malware. The top threats to executives' devices include malware, exploits from unpatched programs and adware.

Remediation and prevention tactics

"While measures like multi-factor authentication (MFA) aren’t perfect, basic best practices are essential, especially for the board/C-suite who often opt-out of the requirement as a matter of convenience," said Melissa Bischoping, Endpoint Security Research Specialist at Tanium. 

"Beyond MFA, other security fundamentals include adopting modernized password practices, reliably deployed and configured endpoint security software, and embracing zero trust and data loss prevention as you mature your organization."

For more report insights, click here.