Proofpoint’s 2025 Voice of the CISO report has unveiled that human error is the top cybersecurity risk for Singapore’s chief information security officers (CISOs), with 61% identifying people as their greatest threat. The report, which surveyed 1,600 CISOs globally, highlights that 91% of Singapore CISOs experienced material data loss in the past year, a significant increase from 32% in 2024.
The findings indicate that departing employees played a role in all reported data losses, despite widespread adoption of Data Loss Prevention tools. This underscores the ongoing challenge of insider threats, with 43% of CISOs admitting their data remains inadequately protected. The report also notes that 82% of Singapore CISOs feel at risk of a material cyberattack within the next 12 months, yet 53% acknowledge their organisations are unprepared to respond.
AI has emerged as both a priority and a concern, with 41% of Singapore CISOs prioritising GenAI tool use over the next two years. However, 50% express concerns about potential customer data loss via public GenAI platforms. Organisations are shifting from restriction to governance, with 53% implementing usage guidelines and 66% exploring AI-powered defences.
Patrick Joyce, global resident CISO at Proofpoint, remarked, “This year’s findings reveal a growing disconnect between confidence and capability among CISOs.” As Singapore continues to strengthen its position as a digital hub, the report calls for human-centric security strategies to address both people and emerging technologies.
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